Statistics:Literacy Rates

The traditional definition of literacy is considered to be the ability to read and write, or the ability to use language to read, write, listen, and speak. In modern contexts, the word refers to reading and writing at a level adequate for communication, or at a level that lets one understand and communicate ideas in a literate society, so as to take part in that society. Proving both men and women the possibility to become literate is thus an important policy objective in the pursuit of gender equality.

The Gender, Institutions and Development Data Base of the OECD Development Centre features following indicators on literacy rates (click on the red "i" to get more information on the variables; also see information on school enrolment):