Governments Around The World Not Thrilled By Microsoft’s Layoffs

Just last week, Microsoft announced that they would be cutting as many as 18,000 jobs, most of which will be members of the Nokia cellphone division that Microsoft absorbed once they had bought the company. This is a lot of jobs Microsoft will be shedding, a great deal more than the 5,000 jobs they cut in 2009.

Finland has expressed their disappointment, going as far as claiming to feel betrayed, but it looks like Finland is not alone in questioning Microsoft’s decision. According to several governments around the world, many have questioned Microsoft’s decision to lay off so many employees at the same time.

For starters, US Senator Jeff Sessions seemed displeased by Microsoft’s actions. According to Sessions, “That is a significant action. Indeed, Microsoft employs about 125,000 people, and they are laying off 18,000. The company laid off 5,000 in 2009. Yet their founder and former leader, Mr. Gates, says we have to have more and more people come into our country to take those kinds of jobs.”

The EU Commissioner, László Andor, released a statement on the issue as well. “I deeply regret the significant job losses announced by Microsoft today because of the impact these will have on so many individuals, their families and the local communities they live and work in.” That being said, we doubt Microsoft will be rethinking their decision, but what do you guys think?

Tyler Lee
Categories: General
Tags: Microsoft