The United Nations celebrated the first ever International Day of Happiness Wednesday, urging nations around the world to promote the well-being and happiness of their citizens and eradicate human suffering. The initiative comes as part of a resolution passed last year sponsored by the Kingdom of Bhutan recognizing happiness as a universal goal and as a guiding principle for public policies. It said instead of focusing solely on financial issues when public policy is drafted, happiness also should be taken into account. “On this first International Day of Happiness, let us reinforce our commitment to inclusive and sustainable human development and renew our pledge to help others,” said Ban Ki-Moon, UN secretary general, in a statement. “When we contribute to the common good, we ourselves are enriched. Compassion promotes happiness and will help build the future we want.” To mark the event, a panel of experts and UN delegates discussed the meaning of happiness, concluding that peace and general well-being are the real indicators of a country’s success. Peter Launsky-Tieffenthal, UN under secretary general for communications and public information, said that while the UN can’t achieve the emotional well-being of every individual, countries can come together to alleviate human suffering. “There’s growing consensus on the possibility of meaningful joint action to achieve our basic human needs such as fighting poverty, promoting health and well-being, safeguarding human rights and protecting the environment,” Launsky-Tieffenthal said. The UN invited countries and non-governmental organizations around the world to be part of the celebration and do their part in promoting the happiness of people.