According to the World Happiness Report 2026, Afghanistan has been ranked as the unhappiest country in the world, consistently holding the lowest position (146th out of 146) in this annual UN-sponsored report. The report evaluates happiness based on factors such as gross domestic product (GDP), social support, and personal freedom. The situation in Afghanistan is exacerbated by the Taliban's denial of education and employment opportunities for women, leading to increased mental stress among the population. Following Afghanistan, Sierra Leone and Malawi rank as the second and third unhappiest countries, respectively. Sierra Leone continues to grapple with poverty, political instability, and the lingering effects of civil war, while Malawi faces high poverty rates, food insecurity, and limited access to healthcare and education. Additionally, Zimbabwe struggles with hyperinflation and widespread poverty, further impacting its citizens' happiness. Lastly, Botswana ranks fifth, dealing with high inequality and restricted access to essential services, which negatively influence the nation's overall well-being.