MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised since January in multiple Italian cities in a prevention-through-information campaign, handing out educational materials titled “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. According to organisers that more than 500,000 booklets have already been distributed, 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 the work of L. Ron Hubbard. The booklets present straightforward information on substances, short- and long-term effects, and health risks.
Athlete engagement is also cited by organisers. They say over 100 Milano Cortina 2026-linked athletes have signed the Foundation for a Drug-Free World Honorary Register, signalling support for youth-focused prevention messaging. Organisers argue, sport provides a natural platform for prevention conversations 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, eu news express said: “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 limit the conditions in which exploitation can take root.”
Read more: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.