MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised since January across Italy for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, circulating educational materials titled “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. The organisers state that over 500,000 copies have already been handed out, with Milan at the forefront and wider participation growing.
The initiative is supported by the European Office of the Church of Scientology within its broader eu news support for drug education and prevention initiatives inspired by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. The campaign focuses on facts about substances and the physical and mental-health consequences associated with use.
Athlete engagement is also cited by organisers. 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. In the organisers’ view, sport helps reinforce healthy choices because it is associated with discipline, recovery and mental focus.
Ivan Arjona, the Church of Scientology’s representative to the EU, OSCE, the Council of Europe and the UN, said: “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 exploitation linked to drug markets.”
Read more: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.