The Lyran Democrative Republic was founded after a revolt by a Lyran count, a vassal of the Enemy's Blood Duchy, in the latter half of the 23rd century. (Star Fleet Battles)
This nation was allowed to survive due to internal strife between the different Lyran dukes and the King-Emperor of the Lyran Star Empire. It adopted a Federation-like attitude towards science and exploration, until the Dominion War broke out. After the signature of the Treaty of Bajor by the LDR, the LDR and the Lyran Star Empire were reunited, then giving the LSE four new duchies. (RIS Bouteina: "Yesterday's Lyrans")
The LDR maintained an organization called the NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) to investigate the causes of starship accidents, which was retained by the Lyran Star Empire after its reunification in 2376. (RIS Bouteina: "Kingdom Hospital")