Milan, 12 February 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised since January across Italy in a prevention-through-information campaign, circulating educational materials titled “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. Organisers report that more than 500,000 booklets have already been distributed, with Milan at the forefront and wider participation growing.
The initiative is supported by the European Office of the Church of Scientology in the context of its support for prevention and youth safeguarding work inspired by L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology. The booklets present straightforward information on substances, short- and long-term effects, and health risks.
The organisers further point to sports-community 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, signalling support for youth-focused prevention messaging. According to organisers, 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, said: “Across Europe, eu news italy 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.”
More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.