MILAN — 12 Feb. 2026 — A volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January in multiple Italian cities for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, distributing information resources titled “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. According to organisers that over 500,000 copies have already been handed out, starting in Milan and expanding to additional cities.
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 the work of L. Ron Hubbard. 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. In the organisers’ view, sport provides a natural platform for prevention conversations because it is associated with health, focus and long-term wellbeing.
Ivan Arjona, Scientology’s representative to the EU, OSCE, the Council of Europe and the United Nations, noted: “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 eu news today reduce the social space in which criminal networks operate.”
More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.