Taiwan proposes Civil Code revision to remove siblings' "reserved share" in inheritance

Taiwan's Ministry of Justice is moving to significantly alter the nation's inheritance laws by proposing amendments to the Civil Code. The proposed changes aim to modernize the inheritance system, with the most notable revision being the removal of the "reserved share" previously guaranteed to siblings.

Under the current legal framework, siblings are entitled to a portion of an estate, regardless of the deceased's wishes or the presence of closer relatives. The proposed amendment seeks to eliminate this provision, redirecting inheritance rights primarily towards the core family unit. This includes spouses, direct descendants (children and grandchildren), and parents.

Officials state that the revision is intended to better align inheritance practices with contemporary family structures and societal values. By focusing on immediate family members, the Ministry of Justice hopes to simplify the often complex process of estate distribution and ensure that assets are passed on to those most closely related to the deceased.

The draft amendment is now open for public consultation, marking a significant step towards potentially reshaping inheritance practices in Taiwan. The changes reflect a broader trend of legal reforms aimed at adapting to evolving social norms.