Ukraine's Civil Code Revision: New Rules for Bequeathing Pets.

Proposed Amendments to Ukraine's Civil Code

According to TSN.ua: A draft revision of Ukraine's Civil Code, which would allow pet owners to bequeath their animals in a will, has been registered in the Verkhovna Rada. This initiative is the result of nearly six years of work by an expert group led by Ruslan Stefanchuk. The 832-page document was registered on Ukraine's Unity Day. This move reflects a growing global trend of recognizing pets as more than just property.

Expert Input and Key Changes

The new draft was prepared with input from 247 experts, who collectively possess 29 years of professional experience. A key innovation is the expansion of the number of inheritance queues from five to six, which broadens the possibilities for succession. Changes to inheritance law also now include:

• the right to compensation for damages;
• payment of penalties;
• compensation for moral damages incurred.

This first codification submitted by ninth-convocation deputies marks a significant step in the development of Ukrainian legislation, as it addresses the modern needs of pet owners and promotes better organization of inheritance relations. The introduction of the ability to bequeath pets is a major development in the legal norms governing property relations in Ukraine. This innovation could significantly alter approaches to inheritance matters, which now extend beyond material assets to include living beings that have become important family members. The preparation of the new Civil Code also demonstrates the legislature's intent to adapt the legal system to contemporary social realities and the needs of citizens.