MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — Around 300 volunteers have been active since January in multiple Italian cities for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, circulating educational materials titled Sports “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. Organisers report that more than 500,000 booklets have already been distributed, with Milan leading the effort and other cities increasingly involved.
The European Office of the Church of Scientology is among those supporting the campaign as part of its long-running backing for community-based drug education inspired by the work of L. Ron Hubbard. The booklets present straightforward information on substances, short- and long-term effects, and health risks.
The organisers further point to sports-community 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. In the organisers’ view, sport helps reinforce healthy choices because it is associated with health, focus and long-term wellbeing.
Ivan Arjona, representative of the Church of Scientology to the EU, OSCE, Council of Europe and UN, stated: “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.