Human rights, the Sustainable Development Goals, international agendas… as well as the direct voice of the people who suffer from illiteracy, are clear: Literacy is a right, and every state, politician, technician, and professional linked to education should listen to the voices of the participants in literacy processes.
The right to literacy for everyone, according to UNESCO, in the 21st century is not guaranteed. Regardless of age, gender, culture, or religion… all people who want to become literate have the right to receive free, quality education. Literacy must take place in an environment of respect, peaceful coexistence, in line with Human Rights, and breaking away from any form of discrimination: ageist, racist, sexist, homophobic, etc. All governments and international organizations connected to education must ensure opportunities for literacy in every village, town, neighborhood, city, or community.
(CONGRESS OF LITERACY PARTICIPANTS 2024)
According to UNESCO data, there are 739 million adults (UIS, 2025) who cannot read or write, two-thirds of them women, as well as 250 million children who do not acquire basic reading and writing skills.
No: it is not a priority of the past century;
No: it does not only affect older people;
No: it is not resolved simply with compulsory education;
No: it is not just a problem of certain countries…
And YES: it is more of a priority now than ever before. Beyond reflecting on what other social and educational agents should do, we could reflect on: What am I doing, and what am I contributing to guarantee literacy in my neighborhood, in my town or city, or in any corner of the world?
Co-Coordinator of the Verneda Sant Martí Learning Community