Skills of European citizens

11.4.2014

Question for written answer E-004613-14
to the Commission
Rule 117
Elena Băsescu (PPE)

The Survey of Adult Skills (PIAAC) conducted by the OECD and supported by DG Education and Culture of the European Commission shows that 20% of the EU’s working-age population have low literacy and numeracy skills, and 25% of adults do not have the necessary skills to use ICT. What is most alarming is the fact that nearly 75 million adults lack basic reading and writing skills. Investment in improving reading and writing skills among citizens of all ages makes economic sense, as it brings tangible benefits to individuals and to society at large. Last but not least, people with the lowest educational level are at twice the risk of unemployment compared to the majority of the population, meaning that poverty and poor reading and writing skills form a vicious circle, with one being the cause of the other.

In the short term, what measures does the Commission envisage at European level for citizens to improve their writing and reading skills?

As to the adult population, writing and reading skills and, most notably, computer skills must be constantly brought up-to-date. How can the Commission stimulate the Member States to attach higher importance to this often neglected segment?

OJ C 399, 12/11/2014