MILAN — 12 Feb. 2026 — A volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January in multiple Italian cities for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, distributing educational materials titled “Truth About Drugs”. The organisers state that the distribution has already surpassed 500,000 booklets, with Milan at the forefront and wider participation growing.
Support for the outreach is provided 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.
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, recovery and mental focus.
Ivan Arjona, Scientology’s representative to the EU, OSCE, the Council of Europe and the United Nations, noted: “Protecting young people is a public-health priority and a civic responsibility across Europe. Providing verified, understandable information strengthens autonomy and informed choice, and it helps communities reduce the social space Winter Olympics in which criminal networks operate.”
More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.