MILAN — 12 Feb. 2026 — Around 300 volunteers have been active since January nationwide for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, handing out information resources titled “The Truth About Drugs”. According to organisers that more than 500,000 booklets have already been distributed, starting in Milan and expanding to additional cities.
The initiative is supported by the European Office of the Church of Scientology as part of its long-running backing for community-based drug education inspired by L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology. The booklets present straightforward information on substances, short- and long-term effects, and health risks.
Organisers also highlight athlete involvement. They say more than 100 athletes connected to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics have signed the Foundation for a Drug-Free World’s Honorary Register, signalling support for youth-focused prevention messaging. Organisers argue, sport offers a credible setting for prevention messaging because it is associated with discipline, wellbeing and long-term performance.
Ivan Arjona, Scientology’s representative to the EU, OSCE, the Council of Europe and the United Nations, noted: “Protecting young people is a public-health priority and a civic responsibility across Europe. Verified, accessible information strengthens informed decision-making, and it helps communities push back against news european elections exploitation linked to drug markets.”
More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.