Former UK Minister pushes to make workplace happiness a right

WESTMINSTER, ENGLAND — Former United Kingdom Trade Minister, Lord Mark Price, is pushing an international campaign to establish happiness at work as a universal right. Price has launched the Work Happiness Charter, a manifesto for healthier and more productive working lives, alongside his new book, Work Happier.

Blueprints for happiness at work

The core of Price’s initiative is the establishment of a defined structure for what constitutes happiness in the workplace. 

Developed from global research, employee surveys, and case studies conducted by Price’s company, WorkL, the Charter outlines specific rights and responsibilities. It aims to give employees and employers a mutual understanding of how workers should be treated and how they should feel in their work environment.

Price directly addresses potential criticism by framing the Charter in legalistic terms, arguing that “happiness” can be legislated alongside broader concepts such as safety and human rights. 

He contends that while the term itself may seem abstract, the Charter provides the necessary detail to give it practical meaning. 

“The Work Happiness Charter and my book explain what happiness at work is and, therefore, what your happiness rights should be. How you can take control of your happiness at work and how that can improve your performance,” Price stated, asserting that this clarity empowers individuals to take control of their own workplace well-being.

Workplace happiness drives higher business performance

A second, pivotal idea driving the campaign is the argument that employee happiness is a direct contributor to commercial success, not a peripheral benefit. Price presents happiness as a strategic resource with real payoffs for both the individual and the organization. 

He cites evidence that happy workers are more likely to be promoted and receive wage increases and associates personal well-being with professional growth and monetary benefits.

From a corporate perspective, Price points out that a satisfied workforce can work more effectively, thereby increasing the business’s commercial success. This positions the Charter not as a charitable act but as a sound business investment. 

“I urge leaders across business and government to recognize happiness at work not as a luxury, but a right,” he said.

“A happy workforce isn’t just good for people, it’s good for business, too. Together, we can create a future where work is more fulfilling and productive.”