International Literacy Day is observed annually on 8 September worldwide. First celebrated in 1967, this day emphasizes the significance of literacy for individual empowerment, social development, democratic participation and sustainable development. Initiated by UNESCO, the international observance encourages governments, educational institutions, civil society organizations and individuals to act with the awareness that literacy is a universal human right.
History
At its 14th General Conference in 1966, UNESCO designated 8 September as International Literacy Day. This decision was grounded in the principle that literacy should be a fundamental priority in educational and development policies. Since 1967, the day has been commemorated in many countries through seminars, conferences, award ceremonies and awareness-raising activities.
Purpose and Scope
International Literacy Day aims to recognize literacy not merely as the ability to read and write but as a human right that enables individuals to participate actively in social life. According to UNESCO, literacy facilitates access to information, expression of ideas and contribution to societal progress. It also forms the foundation of a culture of peace based on values such as equality, justice, tolerance and respect for diversity.
Literacy provides individuals not only with access to knowledge but also the capacity to engage more effectively in social relationships, economic activities and civic responsibilities. Consequently, UNESCO defines literacy as a “comprehensive competence” and associates it with the concept of lifelong learning.
UNESCO’s Initiatives
Since its establishment, UNESCO has placed the promotion of literacy at the center of educational policies. The organization works to develop literacy programs in member states, train teachers, prepare learning materials and implement inclusive educational policies.
Since 2020, UNESCO has supported the strengthening of literacy policies in approximately fifty countries. This support particularly aims to expand educational opportunities for adult learners and marginalized groups. Through the Global Alliance for Literacy, UNESCO fosters international cooperation and encourages the sharing of best practices.
Additionally, UNESCO has launched the Gateways to Public Digital Learning program to harness the potential of digital technologies in education. The program aims to enhance educational opportunities through open online courses and digital learning platforms. UNESCO also works to improve teachers’ digital competencies, emphasizing that while technology is a supportive tool for learning, humans—specifically teachers—remain central to education.
Literacy and Digital Transformation
In contemporary contexts, literacy extends beyond the ability to read and write text. Digitalization has profoundly transformed access to information and modes of communication. UNESCO emphasizes that literacy in the digital age encompasses the ability to understand, evaluate, produce and share digital content safely. While digital transformation has the potential to expand learning opportunities, limited access to digital tools can create new inequalities. Therefore, UNESCO regards the development of digital literacy as a fundamental condition for both individual empowerment and social inclusion.
Global Cooperation and Policy Commitments
UNESCO’s literacy initiatives involve broad international participation. A resolution adopted during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, led by Mongolia, reinforced the global commitment to strengthening literacy. The resolution highlights the need to re-evaluate literacy in alignment with the demands of the digital era.
