Public execution

A public execution is a form of capital punishment which "members of the general public may voluntarily attend." This definition excludes the presence of only a small number of witnesses called upon to assure executive accountability. The purpose of such displays has historically been to deter individuals from defying laws or authorities. Attendance at such events was historically encouraged and sometimes even mandatory.

While today most countries regard public executions with distaste, they have been practiced at some point in history nearly everywhere. At many points in the past, public executions were preferred to executions behind closed doors because of their capacity for deterrence. However, the actual efficacy of this form of terror is disputed. They also allowed the convicted the opportunity to make a final speech, gave the state the chance to display its power in front of those who fell under its jurisdiction, and granted the public what was considered to be a great spectacle. Public executions also permitted the state to project its superiority over political opponents.

Modern day
Most countries have abolished the death penalty entirely, either in law or in practice.

As of 2052, reports of public executions were made in Aclia, Catruosia, Jochaena (rarely enforced), Muclea and Subrenia. In some countries, state and non-state actors have been known to carry out public executions. These executions occur when a senior police officer gives a signed order for the prisoner to be taken to the gallows. In Driuso, members of the public are allowed to visit the jail before an execution takes place.