UNESCO reveals the number of illiterate people worldwide

UNESCO reveals the number of illiterate people worldwide

According to UNESCO data, 739 million adults worldwide lack basic literacy skills. Women account for two-thirds of this group.
Literacy rates have risen over the past 50 years: youth literacy increased from 75 percent in 1975 to 93 percent in 2024, while adult literacy rose from 65 percent to 88 percent.
Nevertheless, 273 million children worldwide do not attend school. In low- and middle-income countries, 70 percent of 10-year-olds are unable to read and understand a simple text.
On the occasion of International Literacy Day (September 8), UNESCO emphasized that literacy is a fundamental human right. This year’s events were held in Mexico under the theme "Literacy for People, Planet, and Prosperity."
The organization also noted that the exclusion of girls and women from education in Afghanistan is having a serious impact on literacy and future opportunities.