I don’t think the companies in question let people go based on performance or any other logical criteria. They saw an opportunity to unload and they did. I can

I don’t think the companies in question let people go based on performance or any other logical criteria. They saw an opportunity to unload and they did. I can speak based on Netherlands where I work now. If an employee is performing below expectations, then a conversation needs to be had(documented), given a chance to improve or change course. If after an extended period of attempt, the decision to let that employee go still holds, then they may. However, the above reasoning cannot be made for several employees at once (like the layoffs that occurred). To do an American style layoff, the government will insist on the company to document the reasons why, and in most cases, take away the choice for the company to choose which employee they can let go. Which makes it very unattractive. So, if a company wants to let go of several people at once, they typically offer good severance packages and request the employees to quit.