This biennial ranquin called in 2009 to Costa Rica as the happiest country in the world , qualifying aroused applause and criticism alike.

He will speak at the University for Peace, Florida Bebidas Company and Corteza Amarilla Hotel.

This is an excerpt from a conversation with him.

How to measure the happiness of a country?

 The Happy Planet Index seeks to measure the ability of a nation to give welfare to its people and, therefore, the ability of each country for its citizens to be happy. Evaluates three variables: life expectancy at birth, the level of satisfaction of the people and the ecological footprint (the ratio of natural resources consumed in a country which is available).

What really means that Costa Rica top the list?

Their life expectancy at birth is highest in the world, their ecological footprint shows that make good use of natural resources.  In addition, a survey by the Cid Gallup company around the world indicated that when the Costa Ricans were asked how happy they felt and what grade would you give to your life, the average score was 8.5. Few countries achieve this.

Why, to determine the happiness index of a country, do not evaluate other variables such as access to health or education, economic inequality or safety?

Life expectancy at birth and indicates that there are good levels of health.  In fact, Costa Rica has an entire peninsula (Nicoya) with people of impressive longevity . “Furthermore, the level of education and literacy rates are also very high and give us a good indication of the rest.”

But one of the main problems in the country is insecurity. In fact, many Ticos reacted to the publication of the Happy Planet Index to feel happy about saying no fear, for example, to be assaulted.

Costa Rica itself is the happiest country in the world, but it is paradise, no place is. Everywhere we find negative things and problems, and in the case of Costa Rica’s security may be one of those problems.

“Public safety must be improved. Is vital. Happiness is very social, if people feel unsafe in any place, the social impact will be higher and people will not be happy. The country and the authorities should pay attention to that.  Economic success does not feel as if people are not safe. ”

 And beyond the statistics, how do you explain that the country is positioned in the first place?

I think you were able to give more money to health and education that the arms race, and that ‘s gain.  A few years ago saw the damage they were doing to the environment and are reverting to forest plans and national parks. All that adds up to be the happiest country in all.

We know it takes several days in Costa Rica. Do you still think that the Ticos are so happy?

Yes I have seen many people smile and be very friendly. I’ve seen family unity and co-workers. And that says a lot.  Maybe you feel like a lie, but not in all countries is well.

Happiness is also a decision. A person can live in Costa Rica, a country that gives all people to be happy, and yet not.  However, another person can live in a country that does not give tools to their happiness and be happy.

“We will always have things that bother us.  I resent the social injustice, lawsuits and the bustle of airports, but I consider myself a happy person. ”