Global Literacy Rates by Country (2025) – Who’s Leading?

Literacy is a fundamental indicator of a country’s development and quality of life. It reflects access to education and the ability to participate in economic, social, and political life. While global literacy rates have improved significantly over the years, disparities persist between countries, influenced by factors such as economic development, cultural practices, and access to education.

In this article, we explore the global literacy landscape, highlighting countries with 100% literacy rates and those with the lowest literacy rates. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive table for readers to compare literacy rates by country and better understand the factors influencing these statistics.

Countries with 100% Literacy Rate

1. Ukraine: 100%
2. Uzbekistan: 100%
3. North Korea: 100%
4. Kazakhstan: 100%
5. Azerbaijan: 100%
6. Finland: 100%
7. Norway: 100%
8. Georgia: 100%
9. Luxembourg: 100%
10. Guam: 100%
11. Andorra: 100%
12. Greenland: 100%
13. Liechtenstein: 100%

Countries with 100% literacy rates often prioritize universal education and robust government support for schooling. Many of these nations, such as Finland and Norway, are known for their excellent education systems and equitable access to resources. Others, like Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, benefit from long-standing commitments to compulsory education. Interestingly, North Korea claims 100% literacy, but the figure is difficult to verify independently due to a lack of external assessments. For smaller regions like Liechtenstein and Andorra, achieving universal literacy is more manageable due to smaller populations and strong infrastructure.

Top 10 Countries with the Lowest Literacy Rate

1. Chad: 27%
2. Mali: 31%
3. South Sudan: 34.5%
4. Afghanistan: 37.3%
5. Central African Republic: 37.5%
6. Niger: 38%
7. Somalia: 41%
8. Guinea: 45.3%
9. Burkina Faso: 46%
10. Benin: 47%

Countries with the lowest literacy rates face significant challenges, including poverty, conflict, and lack of educational infrastructure. Chad, Mali, and Niger, for instance, have limited access to schools, particularly in rural areas. South Sudan and Afghanistan grapple with ongoing conflict that disrupts education systems. Cultural factors, such as gender inequality, also play a role; in many of these countries, women and girls have significantly lower literacy rates than men. Addressing these challenges requires international support, policy reforms, and investment in education to create sustainable improvements.

Full Table of Literacy Rate by Country

The Role of Education in Shaping Global Literacy

• Education as a Cornerstone of Development: Countries with high literacy rates demonstrate the transformative power of education. Literacy not only enhances individual opportunities but also contributes to societal progress by reducing poverty and improving health outcomes. Universal access to quality education is key to achieving sustainable development goals.

• Tackling Literacy Challenges: For nations with low literacy rates, addressing the issue requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes building schools, training teachers, and implementing policies that promote gender equality in education. International partnerships and funding can also play a crucial role in helping these countries overcome barriers to literacy.

Global literacy rates provide a lens into the broader social and economic dynamics of nations. While some countries have achieved universal literacy, others continue to face significant challenges. Bridging this gap is essential for creating a more equitable and prosperous world. By prioritizing education and addressing systemic barriers, we can work toward a future where literacy is universal.

Sources

• Adult literacy rate – Our World in Data
• Literacy Rate by Country – World Population Review
• Literacy – CIA world factbook