MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — A volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January across Italy for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, distributing prevention materials titled “The Truth About Drugs”. The organisers state that the distribution has already surpassed 500,000 booklets, with Milan leading the effort and other cities increasingly involved.

The initiative is supported 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 booklets present straightforward information on substances, short- and long-term effects, and health risks.

Organisers also highlight athlete involvement. They say 100+ athletes associated with Milano Cortina 2026 have added their names to the Foundation for a Drug-Free World Honorary Register, supporting drug-prevention awareness for youth. In the organisers’ view, 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: “Across Europe, protecting young people is not only a health objective but a civic eu news sondergipfel duty. Providing verified, understandable information strengthens autonomy and informed choice, and it helps communities push back against exploitation linked to drug markets.”

More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.