Statistics and map about the literacy rates of the world. As we cast a global lens on the literacy landscape, we witness stark uneven literacy rates among different countries This is a testament to ongoing disparities and the work still needed to ensure access to quality education for all. Explore global literacy rates by country, highlighting nations with 100% literacy and those facing challenges, plus a full comparative table. Of the world population older than 15 years, the majority are literate This interactive map shows how literacy rates vary around the world
In many countries, more than 95% have basic literacy skills Literacy skills of the majority of the population are a modern achievement as we show below. The ranking reflects the current 2025 data on the literacy levels of the populations of countries around the world The list is compiled from data collected by unesco and the un on education and science. In the 35 countries and territories with available data, there are considerable disparities in the proportion of children equipped with foundational reading and numeracy skills The median share of children with foundational reading and numeracy skills is 41 per cent and 25 per cent, respectively.
The values are presented in tables and charts with calculations of changes and shares, and with extensive analytical functionality. Adult literacy rate is the percentage of people ages 15 and above who can both read and write with understanding a short simple statement about their everyday life.
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