This is like the worst idea SE ever had -.-
How hard is it to just merge 1 highly populated server with 1 very small populated one?
If you don't like the choise, give people the possibility to switch server.

I'm in 3 very active linkshells right now. If one linkshell prefers an other server for some reason, that means I'll lose that linkshell? Just because SE is too stupid to set up some non-ridiculous merges?

I always loved this game. From the day I started till yesterday. But this idea breaks the total game. People who have some good friends in multiple linkshells, will probably lose a ton of them.
MMOs are all about friendships and playing together. It seems like SE totally forgot that factor when taking this decision.