Global Assault on Drug Abuse by the Church of Scientology International

Aug 21
17:05

2006

Georgina Tweedie

Georgina Tweedie

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Church of Scientology International released a global assault on drug abuse. Ten million drug information booklets were donated in support of UN's "Drugs are not Child's Play" program.

Expanding Global Drug Awareness Efforts

The Church of Scientology International has long been recognized for its proactive stance against drug abuse through its "Say No to Drugs,Global Assault on Drug Abuse by the Church of Scientology International Articles Say Yes to Life" campaign. Recently, they have escalated their efforts by introducing ten new informational booklets, which have been translated into 20 languages to maximize their reach and impact. These booklets provide crucial information on the detrimental effects of commonly abused substances, including street drugs like crystal meth, which has seen a dramatic increase in treatment demand in the United States. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the illegal drug trade is a massive global market, generating between $320 billion and $400 billion annually (UNODC Report).

Key Components of the Campaign

The Church's campaign is comprehensive, involving various strategies to educate and prevent drug abuse:

  • Distribution of Educational Material: Over 10 million booklets and nearly 49 million drug education flyers have been distributed globally.
  • Public Awareness Events: The campaign has organized approximately 88,970 events worldwide to raise awareness about the dangers of drug use.
  • Visual Advertisements: Utilization of over 280,000 billboards and posters to visually communicate the anti-drug message.

Impact and Recognition

The "Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life" initiative has gained substantial recognition and support from both governmental and non-governmental organizations. Active in 53 countries and 545 cities, the campaign's effectiveness is reflected in its extensive reach and the volume of educational materials distributed. The initiative's success is also evidenced by the active participation of around 3,000 volunteers across more than 150 chapters on five continents.

The Role of L. Ron Hubbard's Teachings

L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, emphasized the importance of helping individuals who wish to overcome addiction. His teachings underscore the Church's focus on rehabilitation and recovery, rather than the political or social aspects of drug use. This philosophy has shaped the Church's approach to its anti-drug campaigns, focusing on practical help and support for those looking to "get unhooked."

Conclusion

The Church of Scientology International continues to play a pivotal role in the global fight against drug abuse. By providing valuable information and fostering community initiatives, they support the UN's goal to mitigate the dangers of drugs, particularly among the youth. For more details on the "Truth About Drugs" booklets or the campaign, interested parties can contact the Church of Scientology International's Media Relations Office.

This concerted effort not only highlights the Church's commitment to combating drug abuse but also supports broader international objectives to ensure a healthier, drug-free future for generations to come.