Citing improved rural library services and indoor cinemas along with a deluge of other information, China praised its human rights record in a lengthy report card Monday, its latest bid to deflect Western criticism.

While senior leaders periodically promise China's citizens democracy and human rights, the last two years under President Xi Jinping's administration have been marked by a sweeping crackdown on dissidents and activists.

China has long rejected criticism of its rights' record, saying providing food, clothing, housing and economic growth are far more relevant for developing countries, pointing to its success at lifting millions out of poverty.