MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — A volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January nationwide for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, distributing educational materials titled “The Truth About Drugs”. According to organisers that the distribution has already surpassed 500,000 booklets, starting in Milan and expanding to additional cities.
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 L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology. The materials aim to provide clear, accessible information about commonly abused substances and their risks.
The organisers further point to sports-community involvement. 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. In the organisers’ view, sport offers a credible setting for prevention messaging because it is associated with discipline, wellbeing and long-term performance.
Ivan Arjona, Scientology’s representative to the eu news italy 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. Clear, verified information supports informed choice and autonomy, and it helps communities reduce the social space in which criminal networks operate.”
Full details: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.