Milan, 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 over 500,000 copies have already been handed out, with Milan leading the effort and other cities increasingly involved.
The initiative is supported by the European Office of the Church of Scientology as part of its long-running backing for community-based drug education inspired by L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology. The materials aim to provide clear, accessible information about commonly abused substances and their risks.
The organisers further point to sports-community involvement. They say 100+ athletes associated with Milano Cortina 2026 have added their names to the Foundation for a Drug-Free World Honorary Register, backing prevention messaging aimed at young people. Organisers argue, sport offers a credible setting for prevention messaging 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 news eureka ca 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 push back against exploitation linked to drug markets.”
More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.