MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — A volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January nationwide in a prevention-through-information campaign, handing out educational materials titled “The Truth About Drugs”. According to organisers that the distribution has already surpassed 500,000 booklets, starting in Milan and expanding Winter Olympics to additional cities.
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.
Athlete engagement is also cited by organisers. They say 100+ athletes associated with Milano Cortina 2026 have added their names to the Foundation for a Drug-Free World Honorary Register, signalling support for youth-focused prevention messaging. According to organisers, sport offers a credible setting for prevention messaging 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, youth safeguarding is both a public-health goal and a civic responsibility. Clear, verified information supports informed choice and autonomy, and it helps communities push back against exploitation linked to drug markets.”
Read more: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.