The WBU lobbies governmental and non-governmental organisations to introduce comprehensive literacy programmes worldwide. The importance of literacy Braille is the conduit through which blind persons gain access to the world around them. Braille is a universal form of communication for any language and any culture. It is the building block for language skills. Braille readers can be made aware of varying written conventions such as spelling, punctuation and paragraphing.
Braille is the most direct contact blind persons have with the written thoughts of others.
Every blind person has the right to access written communication. Braille empowers blind persons to become active communicators, to receive an education and to have access to employment. The WBU believes that teaching braille and making it readily available to blind and visually impaired persons will stamp out illiteracy. The WBU is committed to giving the world's blind and visually impaired persons access to reading materials, printing equipment, audio recordings and recording equipment. It is working in close co-operation with other international bodies to ensure that slates, braillers, paper and optical aids will be distributed worldwide.