Economic growth not enough to foster happiness says UN Deputy Chief

Governments which focus on economic growth alone and "forget social and environmental dimensions" are harming their citizens' well-being overall.

That's the view of UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, in a statement marking the International Day of Happiness on Monday.

She said that solely-pursuing economic growth could result in "growing inequalities and environmental degradation".

"Well-being does not depend on income alone" she said, adding that people were happier when they have personal and job security, personal freedom, and "strong family relations based on inter-generational solidarity."

She pointed to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as a blue print for building a "plan of action for the people, planet and prosperity."


SOURCE: Matthew Wells, United Nations.