MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised since January in multiple Italian cities for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, circulating prevention materials titled “The Truth About Drugs”. The organisers state that over 500,000 copies have already been handed out, starting in news eu italy budget Milan and expanding 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 the work of L. Ron Hubbard. The materials aim to provide clear, accessible information about commonly abused substances and their risks.
Organisers also highlight athlete 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, backing prevention messaging aimed at young people. According to organisers, 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, 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 limit the conditions in which exploitation can take root.”
Full details: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.