A democratic republic is a form of government in which the people hold the ultimate power and authority, typically through elected representatives, while also respecting the rule of law and individual rights. This system of government combines elements of both democracy and republicanism.

Here are some key features of a democratic republic:

1. Elected Representatives: In a democratic republic, citizens elect representatives to make decisions and enact laws on their behalf. These representatives are typically organized into legislative bodies, such as a parliament or congress.
2. Rule of Law: A democratic republic operates under the rule of law, meaning that all individuals, including government officials, are subject to and accountable for the law. This helps protect the rights and freedoms of citizens.
3. Constitution: Most democratic republics have a constitution that serves as the supreme law of the land. The constitution outlines the structure of government, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the limitations on governmental power.
4. Separation of Powers: Democratic republics often feature a separation of powers among different branches of government, such as the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. This separation helps prevent the concentration of power in any one branch.
5. Checks and Balances: To ensure that no single branch of government becomes too powerful, democratic republics often employ a system of checks and balances. Each branch has the ability to oversee and limit the actions of the others.
6. Individual Rights and Liberties: A key feature of a democratic republic is the protection of individual rights and liberties, such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. These rights are typically enshrined in the constitution and cannot be easily overridden by the government.
7. Regular Elections: In a democratic republic, regular and fair elections are held to choose representatives and leaders. These elections provide citizens with the opportunity to express their preferences and hold their government accountable.
8. Public Participation: While citizens elect representatives to make decisions, public participation is encouraged through processes such as voting, petitioning, and peaceful assembly. This allows citizens to have a voice in the decision-making process.

Notable examples of democratic republics include the United States, India, Germany, and many other countries around the world. However, the specific details of how democratic republics operate can vary from one country to another, as they are often shaped by the historical and cultural contexts of each nation.