Estimated world illiteracy rates by region and gender in 2000

The bar chart illustrates the estimated illiteracy rates across six distinct global regions, categorised by gender, for the year 2000. Overall, it is evident that illiteracy was more prevalent among women than men in every region, with the most substantial gaps observed in the regions with the highest overall rates.

Developed countries reported the lowest illiteracy levels, with rates of 1% for males and 2% for females. Latin America/Caribbean and East Asia/Oceania* followed, showing relatively low figures. In Latin America/Caribbean, the rates were 10% for males and 12% for females. Interestingly, East Asia/Oceania* displayed a wider gap, with 8% of males and 20% of females being illiterate.

In contrast, Sub-Saharan Africa, the Arab States, and South Asia recorded significantly higher illiteracy rates. South Asia had the highest female illiteracy at 56%, compared to 34% for males. Similarly, the Arab States showed a pronounced disparity, with 53% of females and 29% of males unable to read. Sub-Saharan Africa also faced high levels, with 48% of females and 31% of males classified as illiterate. In all cases, the female population consistently faced greater challenges regarding literacy than their male counterparts.