The average for 2021 based on 3 countries was 94.81 percent. The highest value was in Costa Rica: 98.04 percent and the lowest value was in Puerto Rico: 92.4 percent. The indicator is available from 1970 to 2023. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

In 2023, the illiteracy rate among adults aged 15 years and older was almost 32 percent in Sub-Saharan Africa. In South Asia, the illiteracy rate was 25 percent. Adult illiteracy rate is defined as the percentage of the population aged 15 and older who can not read or write. Even though illiteracy continues to persist around the world, illiteracy levels have been reduced significantly over the past decades.

There is a gender gap in the global literacy rate. Although literacy rates have generally increased worldwide for both men and women, men are on average more literate than women. As of 2023, about 90.6 percent of men and a little less than 84.1 percent of women worldwide were literate. Adult literacy rate is defined as the percentage of people aged 15 years and above who can both read and write with understanding a short, simple statement about their everyday life. Youth literacy rate Not only does the literacy gender gap concern adults, it also exists among the world’s younger generations aged 15 to 24. Despite an overall increase in literacy, young men are still more literate than young women. In fact, the global youth literacy rate as gender parity index was 0.98 as of 2023, indicating that young women are not yet as literate as young men. Gender pay gap Gender gaps occur in many different spheres of global society. One such issue concerns salary gender gaps in professional life. Regarding the controlled gender pay gap, which measures the median salary for men and women with the same job and qualifications, women still earned less than men as of 2024. The difference was even bigger when measuring the median salary for all men and women. However, not everyone worries about gender pay gaps. According to a survey from 2021, 54 percent of the female respondents deemed the gender pay gap a real problem, compared to 45 percent of the male respondents.

The average for 2021 based on 58 countries was 92.58 percent. The highest value was in Romania: 100 percent and the lowest value was in Afghanistan: 42 percent. The indicator is available from 1970 to 2023. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

In 2023, the average adult literacy rates (15 years and older) in Latin America and the Caribbean amounted to 94.79 percent. Literacy rates in Latin America and the Caribbean have been slightly improving in all three age groups since 2014.

Editor’s Choice

• The Healthcare IT market size is expected to be worth around USD 1728 Bn by 2032
• According to a report by UNESCO, countries in South and South-West Asia have the highest number of illiterate adults in the world, estimated at 388 million.
• Approximately 36% of adult Americans possess only basic or below basic health literacy skills.
• Only 12% of Americans are considered proficient in their health literacy skills.
• Health literacy levels in China increased from 6.48% of the population in 2008 to 23.15% in 2020.
• A recent study analyzing global health literacy research from 1995 to 2020 identified the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom as major contributors to the international collaboration network on health literacy.
• Mental health has been the most active research field in recent years in the context of health literacy.

The average for 2021 based on 12 countries was 98.12 percent. The highest value was in Bolivia: 99.5 percent and the lowest value was in Puerto Rico: 92.4 percent. The indicator is available from 1970 to 2023. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

In the past five decades, the global literacy rate among adults has grown from 67 percent in 1976 to 87.36 percent in 2023. In 1976, males had a literacy rate of 76 percent, compared to a rate of 58 percent among females. This difference of over 17 percent in 1976 has fallen to just seven percent in 2020. Although gaps in literacy rates have fallen across all regions in recent decades, significant disparities remain across much of South Asia and Africa, while the difference is below one percent in Europe and the Americas. Reasons for these differences are rooted in economic and cultural differences across the globe. In poorer societies, families with limited means are often more likely to invest in their sons' education, while their daughters take up a more domestic role. Varieties do exist on national levels, however, and female literacy levels can sometimes exceed the male rate even in impoverished nations, such as Lesotho (where the difference was over 17 percent in 2014); nonetheless, these are exceptions to the norm.

The average for 2021 based on 12 countries was 98.27 percent. The highest value was in Costa Rica: 99.53 percent and the lowest value was in Puerto Rico: 92.4 percent. The indicator is available from 1970 to 2023. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

The statistic depicts the literacy rate in Mexico from 2008 to 2020. The literacy rate measures the percentage of people ages 15 and above who can read and write. In 2020, Mexico's literacy rate was around 95.25 percent. The source does not provide data for 2019.Education in MexicoThe literacy rate is commonly defined as the share of people in a country who are older than 15 years and are able to read and write. In Mexico, a state with more than 115 million inhabitants, the literacy rate is above 90 percent, making it significantly higher than the global average. More than 70 percent of Mexico’s population is older than 15 years, a figure than has been quite consistent over the last ten years. Mexico’s compulsory education comprises grades 1 to 9, with an optional secondary education up to grade 12. Literacy is considered basic education. The lowest literacy rates can be found in African countries, the highest in Europe. Additionally, the literacy rate is one of the factors that determines a country’s ranking on the Human Development Index of the United Nations, which ranks the overall well-being of a country’s population. Apart from literacy, it also includes factors such as per-capita income, health and life expectancy and others. Mexico is currently not among the countries with the highest Human Development Index value.

Graph and download economic data for Expenditures: Reading by Highest Education: Less Than College Graduate: Associate's Degree (CXUREADINGLB1406M) from 2012 to 2023 about book, no college, associate degree, expenditures, education, and USA.

Book Publishers Market Outlook

The global book publishers market size is projected to grow from USD 125.7 billion in 2023 to USD 141.9 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.4% during the forecast period. The growth of this market is driven by the increasing demand for educational content, diversification of book genres, and the rise of digital publishing. The market is experiencing a steady but modest growth due to several contributing factors, including technological advancements, the proliferation of literacy programs, and the expansion of the global education sector.

One of the primary growth factors is the increasing global literacy rate and the expanding middle class in emerging economies. Governments and non-profit organizations are investing significantly in literacy programs, which has led to a higher consumption of books, particularly in regions where literacy rates were previously low. Additionally, as more individuals enter the middle class, there is a greater disposable income available for discretionary spending, including on books. This trend is particularly noticeable in regions like Asia Pacific and Latin America, which are seeing rapid economic development and a concurrent rise in literacy and education levels.

Digital transformation is another significant driver for the book publishers market. The advent of e-books and audiobooks has broadened the customer base and created new revenue streams. Publishers are increasingly adopting digital platforms to distribute their content, making books more accessible to readers worldwide. This shift not only reduces printing and distribution costs but also caters to the growing demand for convenient and on-the-go reading options. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital books as physical bookstores faced temporary closures, compelling readers to switch to digital alternatives.

The diversification of book genres is also contributing to market growth. Publishers are now catering to a wider array of interests and niches, from graphic novels and self-help books to cookbooks and travel literature. This diversification is crucial in attracting different demographics and expanding the market reach. Moreover, the rise of self-publishing platforms has enabled a broader range of authors to enter the market, bringing fresh content and ideas that appeal to contemporary readers. As a result, the variety and volume of published content have increased, offering more choices to consumers and driving market growth.

From a regional perspective, North America continues to hold a significant share of the book publishers market, driven by a well-established publishing industry and high literacy rates. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, owing to the rapid economic development, increasing literacy rates, and rising middle-class population. European countries, with their rich literary heritage and strong educational systems, also contribute substantially to the market. In contrast, regions such as Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets with considerable potential for growth, driven by ongoing educational reforms and literacy initiatives.

Type Analysis

The book publishers market is segmented into trade books, educational books, and professional books, each serving distinct audiences and purposes. Trade books, which include fiction and non-fiction, represent a significant portion of the market. These books are primarily targeted at the general consumer market and include genres such as novels, biographies, and memoirs. The growth of trade books is driven by the increasing popularity of reading for leisure and the rise of book clubs and reading communities. Additionally, the e-commerce boom has made it easier for consumers to purchase trade books online, further boosting sales. The trend towards digitization has also led to a surge in e-book and audiobook formats, catering to modern readers' preferences for digital consumption.

Educational books form another crucial segment of the book publishers market. This category includes textbooks, reference books, and supplementary learning materials used in schools, colleges, and professional training programs. The demand for educational books is closely linked to the expansion of the global education sector and the increasing emphasis on continuous learning and skill development. Governments worldwide are investing in education infrastructure, leading to higher demand for quality educational content. Moreover, the rise of d

Science Magazine Market Outlook

The global science magazine market size was valued at approximately USD 2.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 3.9 billion by 2032, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.9% from 2024 to 2032. This market is driven by increasing public interest in scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and the growth of science education worldwide. With the rapid advancement of technology and an increasing emphasis on STEM education, the demand for accessible and reliable sources of scientific information is on the rise.

One of the primary growth factors for the science magazine market is the increasing public interest in scientific discoveries and technological advancements. The general public is becoming more aware of the importance of science and technology in everyday life, from healthcare innovations to environmental sustainability. This growing awareness has led to a higher demand for science magazines that can provide in-depth analysis, expert opinions, and credible information. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of reliable scientific information, further boosting the demand for science magazines.

Another significant growth driver is the expanding scope of science education. Governments and educational institutions globally are emphasizing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education to prepare students for future careers in rapidly evolving fields. This emphasis on science education is not limited to schools and universities but extends to lifelong learning for adults. Science magazines play a crucial role in supplementing formal education by providing accessible, engaging, and up-to-date scientific content that keeps readers informed and curious.

The digital transformation of the publishing industry is also a critical factor in the growth of the science magazine market. Digital platforms have made science magazines more accessible to a broader audience. Online subscriptions, mobile applications, and digital editions offer convenience and interactive features that enhance the reading experience. Additionally, the lower production and distribution costs associated with digital formats allow publishers to reach a global audience more efficiently. This shift towards digital consumption aligns with the preferences of younger, tech-savvy readers who seek information on-the-go.

Regionally, the science magazine market exhibits varied growth patterns. North America and Europe are the largest markets due to their well-established publishing industries, high literacy rates, and strong emphasis on science education. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate, driven by increasing investments in education, rising literacy rates, and growing interest in science and technology. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa also show promising potential, albeit from a smaller base, as efforts to improve education and access to information continue to expand.

Product Type Analysis

The science magazine market is segmented into print and digital formats. The print segment, although facing challenges from digital transformation, continues to hold significant value. Print magazines are preferred by a substantial portion of the readership, particularly older generations who value the tactile experience of reading a physical magazine. Additionally, print editions are often used in academic settings, libraries, and professional environments where physical copies are deemed necessary. However, the print segment's growth is relatively slower due to higher production and distribution costs and the increasing shift towards digital consumption.

The digital segment, on the other hand, is experiencing robust growth. Digital science magazines offer several advantages, including instant access, interactive content, and lower costs. Readers can access digital editions on various devices such as smartphones, tablets, and e-readers, making it convenient to read on-the-go. Publishers benefit from reduced production costs and the ability to reach a global audience without geographical constraints. Features like embedded videos, hyperlinks, and interactive graphics enhance the reader's experience and engagement, making digital magazines an attractive option for the tech-savvy population.

Moreover, digital subscriptions often come with additional benefits such as access to archives, exclusive content, and timely updates, which are not available in print editions. This added value is driving the preference for dig

A survey conducted in the United States in August 2023 found that digital literacy among U.S. adults varied depending on the age group. Younger generations, aged 18 to 29, showed a much higher awareness of digital topics, such as online privacy, and an understanding of generative AI. However, there was a notable gap between them and individuals 65 and older. For example, only 26 percent of respondents older than 65 years could identify an example of two-factor authentication, compared to 68 percent of younger respondents.

In 2024, Nicaragua was the Latin American country with the highest gender gap index, with 0.81 points. Another Central American country, Guatemala, had the worst score in the region with 0.7 points. This means that, on average, Guatemalan women have 30 percent less opportunities than men in education, health, the economy, and politics.

Gender Inequality in Latin America
Based on a 2023 survey conducted among the populace in each nation, Mexico has been perceived as having the least gender-based wage equality, receiving a score of 0.5 out of 1, which is the lowest. In contrast, Barbados is regarded as the most gender-equal among the LATAM countries. Furthermore, the labor market exhibits a male bias, as women have consistently experienced higher unemployment rates over the years, with a rate of 11.3 percent as of 2021. Additionally, it is more common across the countries to observe a greater proportion of females experiencing higher poverty rates, with Mexican and Colombian women being the primary two groups representing this circumstance.

Literacy gender gap
As education progresses in both the educational and labor sectors, the goal is to ensure that basic literacy is accessible to everyone. However, research data reveals that the gender parity index for adult and youth literacy in Latin America remains at around 1 percent. This means that one woman out of 100 is less likely to possess literacy skills compared to men. Furthermore, this rate shows a significant gender gap, with 93.71 percent of females in this region accounting for this skill. Consequently, in the labor field, there are implications for skilled workers due to this literacy gap, resulting in higher rates of unemployment, a lack of training, and a non-educational population. This issue affects approximately 28.4 percent of women in Latin America.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Surveys of Public Attitudes monitored the general public's attitudes toward and interest in science and technology. In addition, the survey assessed levels of literacy and understanding of scientific and environmental concepts and constructs, how scientific knowledge and information were acquired, attentiveness to public policy issues, and computer access and usage. Since 1979, the survey was administered at regular intervals (occurring every two or three years), producing 11 cross-sectional surveys through 2001. Data for Part 1 (Survey of Public Attitudes Multiple Wave Data) were comprised of the survey questionnaire items asked most often throughout the 22-year survey series and account for approximately 70 percent of the original questions asked. Data for Part 2, General Social Survey Subsample Data, combine the 1983-1999 Survey of Public Attitudes data with a subsample from the 2002 General Social Survey (GSS) (GENERAL SOCIAL SURVEYS, 1972-2002: [CUMULATIVE FILE] [ICPSR 3728]) and focus solely on levels of education and computer access and usage. Variables for Part 1 include the respondents' interest in new scientific or medical discoveries and inventions, space exploration, military and defense policies, whether they voted in a recent election, if they had ever contacted an elected or public official about topics regarding science, energy, defense, civil rights, foreign policy, or general economics, and how they felt about government spending on scientific research. Respondents were asked how they received information concerning science or news (e.g., via newspapers, magazines, or television), what types of television programming they watched, and what kind of magazines they read. Respondents were asked a series of questions to assess their understanding of scientific concepts like DNA, probability, and experimental methods. Respondents were also asked if they agreed with statements concerning science and technology and how they affect everyday living. Respondents were further asked a series of true and false questions regarding science-based statements (e.g., the center of the Earth is hot, all radioactivity is manmade, electrons are smaller than atoms, the Earth moves around the sun, humans and dinosaurs co-existed, and human beings developed from earlier species of animals). Variables for Part 2 include highest level of math attained in high school, whether the respondent had a postsecondary degree, field of highest degree, number of science-based college courses taken, major in college, household ownership of a computer, access to the World Wide Web, number of hours spent on a computer at home or at work, and topics searched for via the Internet. Demographic variables for Parts 1 and 2 include gender, race, age, marital status, number of people in household, level of education, and occupation.

Literacy in India has been increasing as more and more people receive a better education, but it is still far from all-encompassing. In 2023, the degree of literacy in India was about 77 percent, with the majority of literate Indians being men. It is estimated that the global literacy rate for people aged 15 and above is about 86 percent. How to read a literacy rateIn order to identify potential for intellectual and educational progress, the literacy rate of a country covers the level of education and skills acquired by a country’s inhabitants. Literacy is an important indicator of a country’s economic progress and the standard of living – it shows how many people have access to education. However, the standards to measure literacy cannot be universally applied. Measures to identify and define illiterate and literate inhabitants vary from country to country: In some, illiteracy is equated with no schooling at all, for example. Writings on the wallGlobally speaking, more men are able to read and write than women, and this disparity is also reflected in the literacy rate in India – with scarcity of schools and education in rural areas being one factor, and poverty another. Especially in rural areas, women and girls are often not given proper access to formal education, and even if they are, many drop out. Today, India is already being surpassed in this area by other emerging economies, like Brazil, China, and even by most other countries in the Asia-Pacific region. To catch up, India now has to offer more educational programs to its rural population, not only on how to read and write, but also on traditional gender roles and rights.

In 2019, 72 percent of American adults stated that they had read a book in any format in the previous year. This is the lowest in several years, however print books continue to be the most popular format among U.S. readers.

In 2022, Peruvian students reached the highest financial literacy score among the Latin American countries analyzed by the program for international student assessment (PISA), with ***. Brazil followed with a mean score of ***.

Argentina scored 562 out of a maximum of 800 points in the English Proficiency Index 2023. That was the highest score among all Latin American countries included in the survey. The Argentine capital, Buenos Aires, also received the highest English proficiency score among all the Latin American cities analyzed. Mexico and Haiti received the lowest scores in the region.