Ah, Egypt and its CBDC research phase. It's like they're dipping their toes into the world of digital currencies while already drowning in issues of poor freedom and corruption rankings. Quite a balancing act they've got going on there.
So, let me get this straight. Egypt, with a freedom score of 18 out of 100 according to Freedom House, decides it's a good time to explore CBDCs? Because nothing says "let's improve financial control" like suppressing criticism and engaging in rampant corruption.
I mean, why focus on addressing human rights violations or tackling corruption when you can just throw some shiny new digital currency into the mix? It's like putting a Band-Aid on an infected wound and hoping for the best.
And let's not forget about the lovely treatment political activists and opposition parties receive in Egypt – asset freezes, travel bans – you know, all those fun things that make people feel warm and fuzzy inside. With a CBDC in place, I'm sure it'll be even easier to financially control those who dare to criticize.
But hey, maybe I'm being too cynical here. Perhaps the international community should just turn a blind eye to these undertakings because who needs human rights or accountability anyway? Let's let Egypt do its thing without any pesky interference.
In all seriousness though (*cue sarcastic tone*), it is essential for the international community to be more vocal about such developments. If we don't hold governments accountable for their actions and demand transparency when it comes to financial control, then we are essentially turning our backs on those who suffer under oppressive regimes.
So shout it from the rooftops! Let your voice be heard! And maybe...just maybe...we can create enough awareness to make a positive impact amidst all this turmoil.