Copenhagen Youth Mobilize 500 Shops in Scientology-Backed Anti-Drug Initiative
Youth activists from the Danish branch of Truth About Drugs have united in the Danish capital to distribute factual drug education materials across more than 500 businesses. Their outreach, sponsored in part by the Church of Scientology, marks a new wave to raise awareness about drug risks among youth.
Over the course news eu farmers of recent months, children and teenagers aged 10–20 approached small shop owners to invite them to feature copies of *The Truth About Drugs* booklet. The materials — produced by the Drug-Free World Foundation — offer evidence-based information on the dangers of drug use, including cannabis, binge drinking, and synthetic substances.
“These kids are stepping up,” said Giulia, a public affairs coordinator. “They want to make a difference, and they are.”
Recent statistics support the urgency of their mission. A new report by the Center for Rusmiddelforskning revealed that drug experimentation among young Danes has fallen from 44 percent to 31.6 percent over the past decade. Among young men, use dropped from more than half to one-third.
According to scientists quoted in a recent [DR news article](https://www.dr.dk/nyheder/indland/faerre-unge-maend-drikker-alkohol-og-ryger-cannabis-risikovilligheden-ikke-er-saa-hoej-som-tidligere), this change is partly due to increased education and a decline in peer pressure around drugs.
The Danish arm of the campaign is part of a broader, global initiative that has operated in Denmark since the early 1990s. With support from volunteer groups affiliated with Scientology, *Truth About Drugs* booklets have been distributed at events such as the Royal Run and the Copenhagen Marathon. Founder of Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard, identified drugs as “the single most destructive element present in our current culture,” a statement that continues to inspire outreach efforts today.
*“Meaningful youth participation isn’t a fairy tale — it’s a blueprint for building resilient communities,”* said Ivan Arjona, Scientology’s diplomatic envoy to European institutions. *“These young people are not waiting for permission to change the world. They are already doing it.”*
Parents and educators welcome the youth-led initiative, noting how it builds positive civic habits while placing responsibility in the hands of youth. Each booklet distributed is a step toward a more informed public — and, many believe, a healthier future.
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**About the Church of Scientology:**
The Church of Scientology and its affiliated groups and missions operate across Europe. Recognized in many nations as a bona fide religion and non-profit, it is actively engaged in campaigns that promote drug prevention, human rights education, and moral values. Inspired by the teachings and humanitarian works of L. Ron Hubbard, the Church supports initiatives such as *Truth About Drugs* through educational outreach and community partnerships.