Every year on 8 September, the world celebrates International Literacy Day (ILD), a global event dedicated to promoting literacy as a basic human right and a foundation for lifelong learning. In 2026, the celebration is especially significant as it marks the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day, which was proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1966 during its 14th General Conference.Over the years, literacy has been recognised as a powerful tool for reducing poverty, promoting peace, and advancing sustainable development. Since 2015, many countries and organisations have increased efforts to improve access to quality education and literacy programmes. However, millions of people around the world still face challenges related to illiteracy, limited access to education, and digital inequalities. Emerging global issues such as climate change, technological transformation, and economic instability further emphasise the need for inclusive and accessible literacy education.This year’s theme, “Literacy for People, the Planet, and Prosperity,” highlights the important role literacy plays in improving lives, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable economic growth. The theme reminds the world that literacy is not only about reading and writing, but also about empowering individuals and communities to make informed decisions that benefit society and future generations. It also encourages governments, institutions, and communities to invest in literacy programmes that support social inclusion, environmental awareness, and economic opportunities. Literate societies are better equipped to address environmental challenges, participate in democratic processes, and create sustainable livelihoods. Literacy also empowers young people and adults with the knowledge and skills necessary for employment, innovation, and community development.The global celebration of ILD 2026 will take place on 8–9 September 2026 in Mexico in collaboration with the Government of Mexico. The event will bring together educators, policy makers, development partners, and literacy advocates from across the world to reflect on the progress made over the past six decades and discuss future strategies for promoting literacy in a rapidly changing world. The celebration will also feature the award ceremony for the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes, which recognise outstanding literacy programmes making a positive impact in communities worldwide. ILD 2026 will also be celebrated across local, national and regional levels worldwide.International Literacy Day 2026 serves as a reminder that literacy remains essential for achieving peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable societies. As the world celebrates 60 years of progress, individuals and organisations are encouraged to support literacy initiatives, promote reading cultures, and ensure that no one is left behind in accessing education and knowledge.By working together, societies can use literacy as a pathway towards a better future for people, the planet, and shared prosperity for all.
Every year on 8 September, the world celebrates International Literacy Day (ILD), a global event dedicated to promoting literacy as a basic human right and a foundation for lifelong learning. In 2026, the celebration is especially significant as it marks the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day, which was proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1966 during its 14th General Conference.
Over the years, literacy has been recognised as a powerful tool for reducing poverty, promoting peace, and advancing sustainable development. Since 2015, many countries and organisations have increased efforts to improve access to quality education and literacy programmes. However, millions of people around the world still face challenges related to illiteracy, limited access to education, and digital inequalities. Emerging global issues such as climate change, technological transformation, and economic instability further emphasise the need for inclusive and accessible literacy education.
This year’s theme, “Literacy for People, the Planet, and Prosperity,” highlights the important role literacy plays in improving lives, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable economic growth. The theme reminds the world that literacy is not only about reading and writing, but also about empowering individuals and communities to make informed decisions that benefit society and future generations. It also encourages governments, institutions, and communities to invest in literacy programmes that support social inclusion, environmental awareness, and economic opportunities. Literate societies are better equipped to address environmental challenges, participate in democratic processes, and create sustainable livelihoods. Literacy also empowers young people and adults with the knowledge and skills necessary for employment, innovation, and community development.
The global celebration of ILD 2026 will take place on 8–9 September 2026 in Mexico in collaboration with the Government of Mexico. The event will bring together educators, policy makers, development partners, and literacy advocates from across the world to reflect on the progress made over the past six decades and discuss future strategies for promoting literacy in a rapidly changing world. The celebration will also feature the award ceremony for the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes, which recognise outstanding literacy programmes making a positive impact in communities worldwide. ILD 2026 will also be celebrated across local, national and regional levels worldwide.
International Literacy Day 2026 serves as a reminder that literacy remains essential for achieving peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable societies. As the world celebrates 60 years of progress, individuals and organisations are encouraged to support literacy initiatives, promote reading cultures, and ensure that no one is left behind in accessing education and knowledge.
By working together, societies can use literacy as a pathway towards a better future for people, the planet, and shared prosperity for all.