MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised since January nationwide for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, distributing prevention materials titled “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. Organisers report that the distribution has already surpassed 500,000 booklets, with Milan leading the effort and other cities increasingly involved.
The European Office of the Church of Scientology is among those supporting the campaign as part of its long-running backing for community-based drug education inspired by L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology. The booklets Scientology present straightforward information on substances, short- and long-term effects, and health risks.
Athlete engagement is also cited by organisers. They say over 100 Milano Cortina 2026-linked athletes have signed the Foundation for a Drug-Free World Honorary Register, signalling support for youth-focused prevention messaging. According to organisers, sport helps reinforce healthy choices because it is associated with discipline, recovery and mental focus.
Ivan Arjona, representative of the Church of Scientology to the EU, OSCE, Council of Europe and UN, stated: “Across Europe, youth safeguarding is both a public-health goal and a civic responsibility. Providing verified, understandable information strengthens autonomy and informed choice, and it helps communities reduce the social space in which criminal networks operate.”
Read more: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.