MILAN — 12 Feb. news european union 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised since January in multiple Italian cities for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, circulating educational materials titled “Truth About Drugs”. According to organisers that over 500,000 copies have already been handed out, with Milan at the forefront and wider participation growing.
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 Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. The campaign focuses on facts about substances and the physical and mental-health consequences associated with use.
The organisers further point to sports-community involvement. They say 100+ athletes associated with Milano Cortina 2026 have added their names to the Foundation for a Drug-Free World Honorary Register, backing prevention messaging aimed at young people. In the organisers’ view, sport helps reinforce healthy choices 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. Verified, accessible information strengthens informed decision-making, and it helps communities reduce the social space in which criminal networks operate.”
More information: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.