<![CDATA[This study focuses on analyzing the welfare index in the ASEAN region (covering six major countries) by comparing two perspectives: objective welfare (Human Development Index/HDI) and subjective welfare (World Happiness Index). Using a balanced panel dataset from 2015–2023, the research applies different econometric approaches for each model, namely the Random Effect Model (REM) for HDI analysis and the Common Effect Model (CEM) for happiness analysis. Empirical findings indicate a striking welfare paradox across the six sample countries. In the objective dimension (HDI), economic stability (GDP) and governance free from corruption (CPI) are proven to be the main positive and significant drivers, while government expenditure (GovExp) shows no meaningful impact, suggesting budget inefficiency. Conversely, in the subjective welfare model, the Easterlin Paradox emerges, as GDP and the corruption index have no significant effect on the happiness index. The happiness levels in these six countries tend to be more influenced by government expenditure. This study concludes that strong economic fundamentals and clean governance free from corruption are essential to building a high quality of human life, whereas citizens’ life satisfaction is more determined by the direct presence of the state through public spending.]]>
Copyrights © 2025
