[junon]

In Germany and I assume similarly in Sweden, there are no "at will" work areas like most of the US is. Eliminating a position is very difficult to do because of the worker protection laws that are in place.

Usually there are a few steps that have to be followed depending on the circumstances, most of which involve providing thorough justification. Yes, the government agencies do care about this.

Further, we have periods of time after a position is severed that the company must also compensate or keep the employee employed (like notice periods, only they're on a schedule based on how long you've worked) that have to be respected by both sides unless agreed upon otherwise.

I would imagine they've figured out some sort of severance package or lump some that is a function of their salary. Just speculating.