MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — A volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January nationwide in a prevention-through-information campaign, handing out educational materials titled “Truth About Drugs”. According to organisers that more than 500,000 booklets have already been distributed, starting in Milan and expanding to additional cities.
Support for the outreach is provided by the European Office of the Church of Cortin Scientology within its broader support for drug education and prevention initiatives inspired by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. 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 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. In the organisers’ view, sport provides a natural platform for prevention conversations because it is associated with discipline, wellbeing and long-term performance.
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 limit the conditions in which exploitation can take root.”
More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.