This isn't the first time a company tries to import US norms about employment into Swedish labor relations.

And it never ends well.

Notice that it's not the loyalty scheme per se that is problematic —during active employment in Sweden you are required to adhere to these principals by default— but the unethical possibly illegal messaging. edit: The responsibilities doesn't extend after employment has ended unless otherwise agreed.

What I don't get is why Spotify didn't prepare this arrangement in their contracts with their people when they joined the company. Then all cards would be on the table, the contract would be referred to as “the standard type”, less drama.

Pretty sure everyone is entitled to severance package regardless if you sign something or not.

In this case, one would suspect, they got either regular deal without gag order or a better one with one.

Now they don't want to follow on their part of the deal.

You can't have your cake and eat it too.

Except gag orders an unenforceable in Sweden so it’s just BigCo intimidation