UNESCO’s main goal in this area is to improve literacy policies and practices through qualitative and quantitative research. Research is also undertaken for the purpose of monitoring and evaluation as well as for literacy assessment. A key publication on the status of literacy is the Global Monitoring Report (GMR) 2006 entitled "Literacy for Life", although other editions of the GMR also regularly address the global literacy situation.

Drawing on the theoretical and empirical research of the academic community, UNESCO assesses the impact of literacy, the methods for collecting and compiling data, and the challenges which require innovative solutions, such as multilingual situations, groups with special learning needs, or the costing and financing of literacy work.

UNESCO collaborates with universities, specialized research institutions and civil society organizations in promoting and undertaking research. Through its function as a clearing house of information on literacy, UNESCO maps existing cutting-edge research, promotes the development of networks and provides a platform for the exchange of dialogue and the dissemination of ideas.  

A number of research tools in various fields related to literacy are made available by the Organization. The Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) has extensive research in the areas of literacy, non-formal education, adult and lifelong learning. In addition, the UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) provides global data and indicators on literacy, which are updated on an annual basis.

Information is also made available through publications, databases, and the UNESCO literacy portal.