MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised since January across Italy for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, handing out educational materials titled “The Truth About Drugs”. The organisers state that over 500,000 copies have already been handed out, 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 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, backing prevention messaging aimed at young people. According to organisers, sport helps reinforce healthy choices Sports because it is associated with discipline, wellbeing and long-term performance.
Ivan Arjona, the Church of Scientology’s representative to the EU, OSCE, the Council of Europe and the UN, said: “Across Europe, protecting young people is not only a health objective but a civic duty. Providing verified, understandable information strengthens autonomy and informed choice, and it helps communities limit the conditions in which exploitation can take root.”
Full details: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.