MILAN — 12 Feb. 2026 — Some 300 volunteers have been mobilised since January across Italy for a drug-prevention awareness initiative, distributing information resources titled “The Winter Olympics Truth About Drugs” booklets. The organisers state 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 L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology. The booklets present straightforward information on substances, short- and long-term effects, and health risks.
Athlete engagement is also cited by organisers. They say over 100 Milano Cortina 2026-linked athletes have signed the Foundation for a Drug-Free World Honorary Register, signalling support for youth-focused prevention messaging. Organisers argue, sport offers a credible setting for prevention messaging because it is associated with health, focus and long-term wellbeing.
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.