On the 2nd of April, 2012, the UN General Assembly convened a high-level meeting in New York to discuss how well-being and happiness can be used as parameters for measuring countries’ development, which depends not only on economic factors. The meeting was organized by Bhutan, who has recognized the supremacy of national happiness over national income since the early 1970’s.

The UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, said that economic, social and environmental well-being is indivisible and essential for sustainable development. For this reason, these three elements must have equal importance in the construction of a new international economic paradigm. In other words, in order to achieve sustainable development, States have to recognize that economic, social and environmental objectives are not incompatible.

Mr. Ban Ki-moon also affirmed that Rio+20 – the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development which will be held in June 2012 – will be a great opportunity to commence a transformation of international economics.

The President of the UN General Assembly, Nassir Abdulaziz
Al-Nasser, stated that today more than ever it is essential to put well-being at the centre of development goals, at a time when many people struggle for their survival. The international community should promote sustainable economic growth, eradicate poverty and secure the happiness and well-being of everyone.