Palestine reports some of the world's lowest illiteracy rates

The Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics reported that illiteracy rates in Palestine are among the lowest in the world, standing at 2.1% for individuals aged 15 and older in 2025.

In the West Bank, illiteracy rates vary by location: 2.3% in rural areas, 2.1% in urban areas, and 1.6% in refugee camps. The gender gap has significantly narrowed since 1997; in 2025, the rate was 1.0% for males and 3.2% for females, compared to 7.3% and 21.1% respectively in 1997.

Data collection for the Gaza Strip for 2024 and 2025 was not possible due to ongoing conflict. However, historical data shows a sharp decline in Gaza's illiteracy rate from 13.7% to 1.9% between 1997 and 2023. The report notes that the conflict has severely impacted education infrastructure in Gaza, resulting in the destruction of over 179 government schools and more than 105 UNRWA schools.