844 000 adults in Switzerland struggle with reading, maths and problem solving
Neuchâtel, 23.10.2025 — In Switzerland, 15% of people aged 16–65 have poor literacy, numeracy and adaptive problem-solving skills. This equates to around 844 000 individuals. Compared with the overall population, they are less likely to be employed and tend to earn less. They also report lower levels of well-being and social participation than people with higher skill levels. These are the findings of a new report by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) based on data from the OECD's Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC).