Global Literacy Rates Reach Record Highs—Even in Low-Income Countries

In a world awash with headlines about crisis and conflict, it’s easy to overlook one of humanity’s quiet triumphs: the rising tide of global literacy. And it’s not just the wealthy countries making gains—some of the biggest improvements are happening in places that once lagged far behind.

The ability to read and write is one of the most basic tools of empowerment—and today, more people have it than at any point in history. According to UNESCO and World Bank data, global literacy rates have climbed to over 87%, up from just 56% in 1950. Even more impressive: youth literacy now exceeds 92%, indicating that the next generation is more educated and connected than ever.

These gains aren't confined to high-income countries. Nations across South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and Latin America have made enormous strides over the past two decades. In Bangladesh, adult literacy rose from 35% in the early 1990s to over 75% today. In Ethiopia, youth literacy has nearly doubled. And in Egypt, women now graduate high school at higher rates than men—a reversal of decades-old trends.

What’s behind this progress? Targeted public policies, international investment, the rise of mobile learning, and a global movement toward universal primary education. Many governments have recognized that literacy is the foundation of development—and have invested accordingly. Community schools, conditional cash transfers, and mobile phone-based learning platforms have all played roles in closing the literacy gap.

Literacy doesn’t just unlock books. It improves public health, lowers child mortality, increases income, boosts civic participation, and raises the status of women and girls. It fuels national growth and global stability. And it empowers individuals to navigate the modern world—from filling out job applications to understanding contracts and casting informed votes.

Challenges remain: in conflict zones, among displaced populations, and where gender inequality persists. But the momentum is strong. The global community now eyes a bold goal—achieving universal literacy by 2050.

It’s a reminder that progress doesn’t always make noise. Sometimes it’s quiet. Sometimes it’s cumulative. And sometimes it shows up in a child, halfway across the world, reading their very first sentence.