Overview

Building a Foundation for Freedom
"Ending illiteracy is a challenge for every country – and every government must do its part by investing in the education of its people. When governments invest in literacy, opportunities for children and families improve, economies grow stronger, and citizens can better protect their health..." more »

UNESCO Statement
"I warmly congratulate Mrs. Laura Bush for her initiative to host this international literacy symposium in her capacity as Honorary Ambassador for the United Nations Literacy Decade..." more »

The United Nations Literacy Decade
"In 2003, the United Nations General Assembly launched the United Nations Literacy Decade (UNLD), establishing a dynamic international initiative to increase literacy rates worldwide by 2012..." more »

Symposium Overview
"Literacy provides people the chance to enjoy individual freedoms and realize their full potential. Men and women who can read and write can participate more fully in their communities and can develop the skills they need to support themselves..." more »

Remarks by USAID Administrator Henrietta H. Fore
"The U.S. Agency for International Development remains committed to advancing global literacy and to working in partnership with the international community to achieve the goals set forth under the Education for All initiative..." more »

Six UNESCO Regional Conferences in Support of Global Literacy

Literacy Challenges in the Arab Region

Literacy Challenges in East Asia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific

Renewing Literacy to Face African and International Challenges

Literacy Challenges in the South, Southwest and Central Asia

Addressing Literacy Challenges in Europe with a Sub-Regional Focus

Regional Literacy Conference in Latin America and the Caribbean