illiterate

Illiterate is a term used to describe a person who cannot read or write at a basic level in any language. In practice, definitions vary: some consider illiteracy to be the inability to read and write simple sentences, while others refer to functional illiteracy, where a person struggles with reading, writing, or numeracy needed for daily tasks. Literacy and illiteracy are not strictly binary; people may be literate in one context or language and not in another.

Causes include limited access to quality education, poverty, gender disparities, conflict or displacement, and disability. Regions with under-resourced schooling systems or disrupted schooling tend to have higher illiteracy rates. Children who miss years of schooling are most at risk, and adult illiteracy remains a concern in many countries.

Consequences of illiteracy include limited employment opportunities, reduced health literacy, and barriers to civic participation. Illiteracy can perpetuate poverty and hinder social inclusion, particularly for women and marginalized groups. Improving literacy is linked to better health outcomes, economic growth, and the ability to navigate information in the digital age.

Responses focus on expanding access to education and providing lifelong learning opportunities. Approaches include formal schooling, adult literacy programs, community education, multilingual and inclusive education, and digital literacy initiatives. International efforts, such as UNESCO's literacy programs and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, aim to reduce illiteracy and promote universal literacy.