The standard service sidearm of the Chinese and Russian police and military is the 9x18 Makarov. Some European and South American police still use the .32ACP, but most are transitioning to the 9mm which is considered a very powerful cartridge outside the USA. But of course here in the US anything less than a .45ACP is considered a pathetic weakling incapable of causing even minor bleeding.
I wonder how many here have ever actually shot real human beings? I haven't, but from what I've heard from those who have is that where the bullet was placed, and how fast they delivered repeat hits was far more important than how fat the bullet was. I choose the 1911 .45ACP simply because I shoot it well and prefer a subsonic round with ample power, but a 9mm lover can easily make a good case IMO as long as they have access to modern JHP ammo.