A Milestone in China’s Legal System

Guangming Daily March 10

The General Provisions of the Civil Law have attracted widespread attention. The official website of the NPC collected over 70,000 pieces of public opinions on the draft.

The General Provisions constitute the general part of China’s first ever comprehensive civil code, which is due for roll-out in 2020 after decades of preparatory work and rigorous debate. They are based on the landmark 1986 General Principles of the Civil Law, which were partly revised in 2009. Over three decades since the reform and opening-up drive was launched, China urgently needs a civil code which systematically incorporates laws on contracts, property rights, tort liability and marriage, among other matters, to meet the needs of its contemporary society.

The General Provisions outline the core ethos and values of the civil code and define and protect the civil and commercial rights of individuals, business entities, and other institutions in China. There are many highlights, such as extending inheritance rights to unborn children and protecting personal information. They reflect social progress and underline the principle of protecting personal and property rights.

The adoption of the General Provisions marks a new high in China’s legal system development and the rule of law. They will be further improved in legal practices to guarantee individual rights.