MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — A volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January across Italy for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, circulating educational materials titled “Truth About Drugs”. According to organisers that more than 500,000 booklets have already been distributed, with Milan leading the effort and other cities increasingly involved.
The initiative is supported by the European Office of the Church of Scientology in the context of its support for prevention and youth safeguarding work inspired by L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology. 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, supporting drug-prevention awareness for youth. Organisers argue, sport provides a natural platform for prevention conversations because it is associated with discipline, recovery Scientology and mental focus.
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 reduce the social space in which criminal networks operate.”
Full details: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.