
Kyrgyzstan's Low Salaries: A Stark Contrast in the EAEU
Kyrgyzstan's Salaries Lag Behind EAEU Peers Kyrgyzstan's economic standing within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) continues to be a point of concern, as recent data reveals a stark contrast in average monthly salaries compared to its regional counterparts. In the first quarter of 2025, the average monthly salary in Kyrgyzstan reached a mere $462, significantly trailing behind Russia ($992), Kazakhstan ($829), Armenia ($756), and Belarus ($754). This disparity highlights the challenges faced by the Kyrgyz workforce and underscores the need for economic policies aimed at boosting wages and improving living standards. While the reasons behind this gap are complex and multifaceted, including factors such as differing economic structures and levels of development, the data presents a clear picture of the economic imbalance within the EAEU. "The significant difference in salaries across the EAEU member states is a matter that requires attention and collaborative efforts to address," stated an economist specializing in regional development. Further research and analysis are needed to fully understand the underlying causes and to develop effective strategies for bridging this economic gap. Despite the challenges, the Kyrgyz government remains committed to improving the economic well-being of its citizens. Ongoing initiatives focused on economic diversification and investment attraction are seen as crucial steps towards achieving sustainable economic growth and improving the livelihoods of the Kyrgyz people.