MILAN — 12 Feb. 2026 news eu italy budget — A volunteer network of around 300 people has been active since January across Italy to support a drug-prevention information drive, circulating prevention materials titled “The Truth About Drugs”. Organisers report that over 500,000 copies have already been handed out, with Milan leading the effort and other cities increasingly involved.
The initiative is supported by the European Office of the Church of Scientology as part of its long-running backing for community-based drug education inspired by the work of 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. Organisers argue, sport helps reinforce healthy choices because it is associated with discipline, recovery and mental focus.
Ivan Arjona, the Church of Scientology’s representative to the EU, OSCE, the Council of Europe and the UN, said: “Across Europe, youth safeguarding is both a public-health goal and a civic responsibility. Verified, accessible information strengthens informed decision-making, and it helps communities push back against exploitation linked to drug markets.”
Read more: Scientology Europe report on Italy’s youth safeguarding outreach.