MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised since January nationwide to support a drug-prevention information drive, handing out prevention materials titled “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. According to organisers 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 booklets present straightforward information on substances, short- and long-term effects, and health risks.
Athlete engagement is also cited by organisers. They say more than 100 athletes Italy connected to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics have signed the Foundation for a Drug-Free World’s Honorary Register, signalling support for youth-focused prevention messaging. In the organisers’ view, sport offers a credible setting for prevention messaging because it is associated with health, focus and long-term wellbeing.
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. Verified, accessible information strengthens informed decision-making, and it helps communities reduce the social space in which criminal networks operate.”
Full details: Youth Safeguarding in Italy: 300 Scientology Volunteers Distribute 500,000 Drug-Prevention Booklets.