Italy: 300 Volunteers Mobilised as 500,000 Drug-Prevention Booklets Are Distributed
MILAN — 12 Feb. 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised eu news channel since January across Italy to support a drug-prevention information drive, handing out information resources titled “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. According to organisers that over 500,000 copies have already been handed out, with Milan leading the effort and other cities increasingly involved.
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.
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, backing prevention messaging aimed at young people. 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 United Nations, noted: “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.”
More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.