MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — A volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January across Italy in a prevention-through-information campaign, handing out educational materials titled “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. The organisers state that more than 500,000 booklets have already been distributed, 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 Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. The campaign focuses on facts about substances and the physical and mental-health consequences associated with use.
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, backing prevention messaging aimed at young people. Organisers argue, sport provides a natural platform for prevention conversations 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, protecting young people is not only a health objective but a civic duty. Verified, accessible information strengthens informed decision-making, and it helps eu news ukraine communities reduce the social space in which criminal networks operate.”
More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.