In Azerbaijan, the issue of low wages among public sector workers often sparks debate. But who exactly earns the lowest salary from the state budget today? Are police officers, teachers, and doctors among them?
Economist Eldaniz Amirov stated that it would be incorrect to include police officers in the lowest-paid category:
“The minimum salary allocated from the state budget is 400 manats. According to the Unified Tariff Schedule, there are 19 grades, and those in the first grade are considered the lowest-paid professionals. These individuals can be found in various government institutions. However, it’s important to note that the majority of those earning 400 manats are people without higher education. So, professionals such as doctors, teachers, or police officers are not included in this category.”
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Amirov added that wages are generally lower in sectors like agriculture and social services provided to the population:
“Of course, there are some high-paying positions even within these sectors, but overall, the salary levels are low.”
It is worth noting that MP Aqil Abbas, speaking at the Milli Majlis (Parliament), commented on police salaries, acknowledging that they work hard but are underpaid.
