Copenhagen Youth Mobilize 500 Shops in Church of Scientology-Supported Substance Awareness Initiative
Teen volunteers from the Danish branch of Truth About Drugs have united in the Danish capital to spread factual drug education materials across 500 shops. The initiative, supported by Scientology volunteers, marks a new wave to raise awareness about drug risks among youth.
Over the course of recent months, volunteers aged 10 to 20 approached local retailers to invite them to feature copies of *The Truth About Drugs* booklet. The materials — produced by the Foundation for a Drug-Free World — offer clear 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. “It’s impressive to see such commitment from children.”
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% in 2014 to 31.6% in 2025. Among boys in the same age group, 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 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 local Scientologists, *Truth About Drugs* booklets have been distributed at public gatherings, sporting events, and street fairs. 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, the Church of Scientology’s representative to the EU, UN, and OSCE. *“These young people are not waiting for permission to change the world. They are already doing it.”*
Observers have praised the youth-led initiative, noting how it builds community partnerships while empowering young voices. Each booklet distributed is a step toward a more informed public — and, many believe, a more drug-resistant 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 Scientology drug education of L. Ron Hubbard, the Church supports initiatives such as *Truth About Drugs* through educational outreach and community partnerships.