Earthquakes rattle dishes off shelves. Volcanoes light up the night sky. And in Vanuatu? People laugh. Homes of bamboo sway like reeds in wind—not from storms, but from the 3 daily earthquakes shaking these islands. Yet here, tremors barely pause a conversation. “If the volcano doesn’t scare us,” shrugs a local, “why would a little wobble?”

  Despite being prone to natural disasters, Vanuatu’s unique combination of sustainability and tradition makes it one of the happiest places on Earth. They’re strong “wantok” (extended family) system prevents anyone from being left behind. Generosity determines status, and people share wealth here. Sharing a harvest matters more than smartphones. With no income tax and a subsistence lifestyle, stress is nothing when your life blends with beaches, jungles, and volcanoes, as nature is the best antidote for stress. 

  Another source of their happiness is the islanders’ strong connection to tradition. From drinking kava at nakamals, UNESCO- recognized sand painting that preserve to dancing with ancestral masks at tok festival. Villagers worshipping world war myths, blending history and spirituality. Where else can you mail a postcard underwater or toast marshmallows to a volcano’s lava show?”

Sadly, just like our beautiful Maldives, Vanuatu isn’t just threatened by climate, its literally disappearing. Vanuatu’s laughter in the face of quakes isn’t ignorance—it’s defiance. But unless the world acts, that smile will drown. Will we listen before the next paradise sinks? We aren’t afraid of earthquakes. We’re afraid of silence—when the world ignores us. Share this. These islands can’t shout louder than the sea.

Aminath Ainy Ahmed

11-S9 (Baatch 2026)