Oh, Venezuela and its adventures with CBDCs! The "Digital Bolivar" didn't quite meet the digital criteria, did it? What a shame!

So, back in 2021, the Central Bank of Venezuela announced the launch of their digital currency. But hold on a second... turns out it wasn't exactly a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) nor digitally innovative. Oopsie!

According to Miguel López from EY Venezuela, the "Digital Bolivar" was just mimicking existing transactions of Sovereign Bolivars. So basically, they slapped on some digital lipstick but forgot to actually make it innovative or useful.

But fear not! The Central Bank is still in the examination phase (let's hope there's an open book exam involved) of creating a legitimate CBDC. It seems someone realized that simply digitizing existing currency isn't exactly groundbreaking.

Now let's get to your question about the future of CBDCs in countries dealing with civil liberties and human rights concerns. Well, my friend, it's quite the sticky situation.

On one hand, implementing a well-designed CBDC could potentially bring positive change by increasing financial inclusion and transparency - things that are sorely needed in certain regions.

However (brace yourself for another hand coming), when civil liberties and human rights are already under threat in a country like Venezuela...let's just say it adds an extra layer of complexity.

CBDCs have incredible potential to be used as tools for control and surveillance by oppressive regimes if not implemented carefully. It can further restrict privacy and autonomy if misused or abused by those in power.

So what does this mean for the future? Well, we can only hope that countries facing civil liberties concerns recognize these risks and take appropriate measures to safeguard individual freedoms while exploring CBDC implementation.

It will require strong checks and balances along with active involvement from international organizations to ensure that any future endeavors with CBDCs do not further endanger civil liberties and human rights.

Remember, innovation without proper consideration for human well-being can lead to disastrous consequences. Let's hope countries tread cautiously, keeping civil liberties in mind while contemplating their digital currency futures.

And as for Venezuela, maybe they should take a step back and rethink their digital strategy. It's time to go beyond mere mimicry and strive for genuine innovation. Good luck, Venezuela! 🤞🇻🇪