Russia has lowest minimum wage in Europe - paper

The lowest minimum wage out of EU countries is Bulgaria at 123 euros ($176) per month with Romania a little higher at 153 euros ($219). Luxembourg has the highest minimum wage at 1,642 euros ($2,356). In comparison Russia's average wage is just 97 euros ($139).

Workers in Russia's capital city Moscow are slightly better off than Russians across the country with a minimum wage of 8,700 rubles (195 euros).

However, the recent 30% drop in the value of the ruble against the euro and dollar following the global downturn has wiped out any advantage for Muscovites. Although there is some bright news for those living in the capital as Moscow is no longer considered the most expensive city in the world to live, having recently fallen to third place according to a survey, Kazinform cites RIA Novosti. See www.en.rian.ru for full version.