Former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff Hospitalized in China

BRASÍLIA, Feb 26, 2025 (BSS/AFP) – Former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff has been hospitalized in Shanghai, China, due to an ear inflammation, her team announced on Tuesday.

The 77-year-old economist, who currently serves as the president of the New Development Bank (NDB)—a financial institution established by the BRICS bloc—was admitted to the Shanghai East International Medical Center on February 21 with a case of vestibular neuritis, an inflammation affecting the nerve responsible for balance.

Despite her hospitalization, Rousseff has remained actively engaged in her work. Her team assured that she is “responding well to treatment” and is expected to be discharged in the coming days.

A Political Comeback

Rousseff was appointed to lead the Shanghai-based NDB in 2023 by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, her longtime political ally. Her return to a prominent international role marked a political resurgence after her impeachment in 2016, when she was removed from office during her second term for allegedly violating budgetary laws.

Initially elected in 2010 as Brazil’s first female president, Rousseff succeeded Lula, who had completed two consecutive terms and was constitutionally barred from seeking a third at the time.

BRICS and Brazil’s Role

Her leadership at the NDB comes at a time when Brazil holds the rotating presidency of BRICS. The country is set to host a BRICS summit in July in Rio de Janeiro, where key economic and geopolitical discussions are expected among member nations.

Founded in 2009, BRICS initially comprised Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, but has since expanded to include countries such as Iran, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates, reflecting its growing influence in global economic affairs.

Background on Vestibular Neuritis

Vestibular neuritis, the condition affecting Rousseff, is a disorder that causes dizziness, balance issues, and vertigo. It is often linked to viral infections and typically resolves with proper medical treatment.

Her hospitalization highlights the rigorous demands of her role at the NDB and the increasing significance of BRICS in global financial structures.