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, handing out prevention materials titled “The Truth About Drugs”. According to organisers that the distribution has already surpassed 500,000 booklets, with Milan at the forefront and wider participation growing.
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 Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. The materials aim to provide clear, accessible information about commonly abused substances and their risks.
Organisers also highlight athlete involvement. They say over 100 Milano Cortina 2026-linked athletes have signed the Foundation for a Drug-Free World Honorary Register, signalling support for Italy youth-focused prevention messaging. In the organisers’ view, sport offers a credible setting for prevention messaging 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: “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.”
Full details: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.