ASML layoff plan sparks protests, with over 1,000 employees participating in the strike

Glonghui March 25｜On Tuesday local time, more than 1,000 ASML employees participated in a lunchtime strike in Veldhoven, where the company's headquarters is located, to protest against layoff plans. In January this year, ASML announced a restructuring plan aiming to streamline about 3,000 mid-level management positions and concentrate more engineering resources in innovative areas. This move is intended to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen technological competitiveness. However, the labor union believes that, given the company's solid financial performance, the justification for the layoffs is lacking. Peter Reniers, representative of the Netherlands' largest union FNV, called on management to propose alternatives that do not involve layoffs. In response, ASML stated that it respects the union and employees’ right to express their opinions and understands employees’ demand to protest during their break time. The company also emphasized that the restructuring plan will continue to move forward, and supporting social plans have already been launched, including employee retraining and severance compensation packages.