The progress of adult literacy in United Nations member states from 1969 to 1971 is the subject of this report. Based largely upon replies to a questionnaire sent to governmental and nongovernmental groups, the report describes trends in literacy development using selected programs as examples. Problems to be overcome if reduction of illiteracy is to be achieved are also discussed. Statistics and tables showing the range of literacy are given and United Nations and national policies in regard to literacy are dealt with. Appendices include lists of groups replying to the questionnaire, literacy statistics by country, and winners of the Mohammed Reza Pahlavi and Nadezhda K. Krupskaya Prizes. (RS)