MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — A news europe today volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January in multiple Italian cities for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, handing out prevention materials titled “The 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 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.
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, backing prevention messaging aimed at young people. According to organisers, sport helps reinforce healthy choices because it is associated with discipline, recovery and mental focus.
Ivan Arjona, the Church of Scientology’s representative to the EU, OSCE, the Council of Europe and the UN, 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 push back against exploitation linked to drug markets.”
More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.