Youth Safeguarding in Italy: 300 Volunteers Distribute 500,000 Drug-Prevention Booklets
MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — A volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January across Italy to support a drug-prevention information drive, distributing information resources 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 as part of its long-running backing for community-based drug education inspired by L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology. The campaign focuses on facts about substances and the physical and mental-health consequences associated with use.
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, backing prevention messaging aimed at young people. eu news In the organisers’ view, sport provides a natural platform for prevention conversations because it is associated with health, focus and long-term wellbeing.
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 limit the conditions in which exploitation can take root.”
Read more: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.