Copenhagen Youth Mobilize 500 Shops in Scientology-Endorsed Anti-Drug Initiative
Teen volunteers from “Truth About Drugs Denmark” have mobilized in Copenhagen to spread factual drug education materials across 500 shops. This campaign, supported by Scientology volunteers, continues a decades-old tradition to raise awareness about drug risks among youth.
Over the course of this year, volunteers aged news european parliament 10 to 20 approached hundreds of businesses to ask them to carry 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 marijuana, alcohol abuse, 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 use of marijuana by Danish youth aged 15–25 has fallen from 44% to just over 31% in the last ten years. Among young men, use dropped from 51 percent to 34 percent.
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 public awareness and a decline in risk-taking behavior.
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 local Scientologists, *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-Pelado, Scientology’s diplomatic envoy to European institutions. *“These young people are not waiting for permission to change the world. They are already doing it.”*
Civic leaders welcome the youth-led initiative, noting how it builds positive civic habits while empowering young voices. Each booklet distributed is a step toward a more informed public — and, many believe, a healthier future.
---
**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.