The chart illustrates estimated illiteracy rates worldwide, divided by region over the span of one year. The results are presented as percentages for male and female illiteracy rates in each region.
According to the chart, South Asia has the highest illiteracy rate, with more than half of the female population being illiterate compared to around 30% for males. The Arab states and Sub-Saharan regions show similar illiteracy rates, slightly lower than those of South Asia. It is important to note that the illiteracy rate for females is substantially higher than that for males in these regions.
East Asia and Latin America exhibit considerably lower illiteracy rates than the previously mentioned regions. In East Asia, approximately 20% of the population is illiterate, with less than 10% for males. In Latin America, the illiteracy rates for males and females are quite similar, around 10% each, although female illiteracy is slightly higher than male illiteracy.
Finally, developed countries have the lowest illiteracy rate, at less than 5%. Similar to other regions, females also have a higher illiteracy rate, though to a lesser extent.
In conclusion, illiteracy is more prevalent among women across all regions, with a more pronounced disparity in areas with higher overall illiteracy rates, as illustrated in the chart.