MILAN, Italy — 12 February 2026 — Around 300 volunteers have been active since Sports January in multiple Italian cities for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, distributing prevention materials titled “The Truth About Drugs” booklets. The organisers state that more than 500,000 booklets have already been distributed, with Milan at the forefront and wider participation growing.
The initiative is supported by the European Office of the Church of Scientology within its broader support for drug education and prevention initiatives inspired by L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology. 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. According to organisers, sport provides a natural platform for prevention conversations because it is associated with discipline, recovery and mental focus.
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. Clear, verified information supports informed choice and autonomy, and it helps communities push back against exploitation linked to drug markets.”
Full details: Scientology Europe: 500,000 drug-prevention booklets distributed in Italy.