UN International Literacy Day

Have you ever travelled to a country with a language that you don't speak? If so, perhaps you had trouble understanding the most basic things: signs, instructions, documents, packaging. Maybe you felt quite powerless. This is just a simple example that gives us a small idea of how hard life must be for a person who is unable to read. Illiteracy is a major problem around the world. To acknowledge the huge efforts of people working in this field, the United Nations celebrates International Literacy Day every 8 September.

What is UN International Literacy Day?

Since 1967, this annual celebration has brought attention to people in the world who don't know how to read or write. It highlights ways to combat this problem and the huge progress that has been made. Every 8 September, UNESCO holds an awards ceremony in which prizes are given to individuals and organisations who work hard to increase literacy around the world.

How big is the problem?

Although illiteracy levels have fallen significantly in the last 50 years, it is still an important issue. Illiteracy across the globe was at 43 per cent in 1980, while a 2024 report estimated that it had dropped to as little as nine per cent, which is very good news. However, that's still some 739 million young people and adults worldwide who lack basic literacy skills, and in some regions such as sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia, the rates are still above 30 per cent.  

What are the consequences of illiteracy?

There is a strong connection between illiteracy and poverty. People who can read and write have an enormous advantage over those who can't when it comes to studying and training. This means that literate people generally earn more money and even enjoy better health. 

What is the situation for women and girls?

A study by the UN showed that almost 83 per cent of women and girls are able to read and write. However, two-thirds of all illiterate people in the world are female. This problem is due to factors such as insufficient educational opportunities for girls or the tradition in some countries for girls to get married at a young age. Many organisations work to try to empower women and girls by teaching them literacy skills.

What is the situation for men and boys?

The same UN study showed that, internationally, 90 per cent of men and boys are able to read and write. However, in many Western countries, girls generally show better literacy than boys. Experts suggest that this is due to education techniques that don't always suit boys.      

What about digital literacy?

Digital technology is affecting how we live, and how we learn. In the digital era, learning to read and write has become more accessible, and much of the reading we do is on devices such as computers and smartphones. Digital literacy – knowing how to find, understand and use information online – is now seen as an essential extension of basic literacy. UNESCO emphasises digital literacy as a central part of International Literacy Day. 

However, it also highlights that there is a 'digital divide'. Today, 2.6 billion people – 32 per cent of the global population – still lack internet access, with 1.8 billion of them living in rural areas. By supporting projects around the world that work towards reducing the digital divide, organisations like UNESCO aim to give more people equal opportunities to work and learn.  
 

How can I participate?

Many libraries, schools and universities organise events to celebrate International Literacy Day, often inviting famous writers to participate. In recent years, celebrations have also included virtual panels, livestreams and social media campaigns that allow people to take part from anywhere in the world.

Article updated 2025