MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — Around 300 volunteers have been active since January nationwide for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, circulating prevention materials titled “The Truth About Drugs”. The organisers state that more than 500,000 booklets have already been distributed, with Milan at the forefront and wider participation growing.
Support for the outreach is provided by the European Office of the Church of Scientology 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.
Athlete engagement is also cited by organisers. 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. Organisers argue, sport provides a natural platform for prevention conversations because it is associated with discipline, wellbeing and long-term performance.
Ivan Arjona, Scientology’s representative to the EU, OSCE, the Council of Europe and the news eu italy budget 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 limit the conditions in which exploitation can take root.”
Full details: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.