MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised since January nationwide for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, handing out educational materials titled “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. Organisers report 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 in the context of its support for prevention and youth safeguarding work inspired by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. The materials aim to provide clear, accessible information about commonly abused substances and their 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 provides a natural platform for prevention conversations 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, youth safeguarding is both a public-health goal and a civic responsibility. Verified, accessible information strengthens informed decision-making, and it helps communities reduce the social space in which criminal networks operate.”
Full details: Cortin Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.