Empowering Communities Through Action: The Church of Scientology’s Contribution to Social Betterment in Europe
Empowering Communities Through Action: The Church of Scientology’s Contribution to Social Betterment in Europe
Blog Article
ScientologyEU Newsroom 26/06/2025 Humanitarian Programs, News
Empowering Communities Through Action: The Church of Scientology’s Contribution to Social Betterment in Europe
Julie Delvaux - Foundation for a Drug Free Belgium, Europe.
Views: 2
Across Europe, where societies grapple with complex challenges—from youth vulnerability and substance abuse to social fragmentation and environmental degradation—faith communities and civil society organizations play a vital role in bridging gaps and promoting social cohesion. Among these actors, the Church of Scientology has steadily built a record of engagement through a variety of social programs that reflect a consistent, practical commitment to improving conditions in the wider society.
Driven by the guiding principle that “a Scientologist is one who seeks a better life for all,” the Church and its affiliated organizations have developed and supported global humanitarian initiatives that are implemented locally. These programs—non-denominational in nature—are offered freely and often in partnership with civil society, educational institutions, and community groups.
Tackling Drug Abuse Through Prevention and Education
Substance abuse remains a cross-cutting concern for governments, educators, and families. Recognizing prevention as a cornerstone of long-term solutions, the Church of Scientology supports the global Foundation for a Drug-Free World, which provides fact-based educational materials to schools, youth groups, and community organizations. In Italy, for instance, volunteers from the Church of Scientology of Milano have distributed thousands of Truth About Drugs booklets throughout urban neighborhoods, train stations, and sports venues. These efforts are complemented by public events and school-based seminars designed to give young people accurate information to make informed choices—without scare tactics.
Educators and public health officials have welcomed the program’s youth-centered approach, which aligns with broader European Union goals on drug demand reduction and early intervention.
Promoting Human Rights Awareness and Interfaith Understanding
In an era of rising polarization and identity-based discrimination, the Church actively promotes human rights education through United for Human Rights and its youth-focused branch, Youth for Human Rights International. These initiatives are grounded in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and are entirely secular, making them suitable for civic education and interfaith cooperation.
The European Office of the Church of Scientology for Public Affairs and Human Rights, based in Brussels, frequently organizes roundtables and public dialogues that bring together policymakers, faith leaders, and human rights experts to foster mutual respect and defend freedom of religion or belief. Notably, these events have involved participation from members of the European Parliament, religious minorities, and NGOs advocating for tolerance and inclusion.
Such engagement contributes to the EU’s goals under Article 17 Scientology of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which provides for structured dialogue with churches and philosophical organizations.
Mobilizing in Times of Crisis: The Volunteer Ministers Program
In response to natural disasters or humanitarian needs, Volunteer Ministers—a program created by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard—have offered help wherever needed. In Hungary, for example, Scientology Volunteer Ministers played a role in recovery efforts during significant flooding of the Danube River, helping families clean damaged homes, distribute emergency supplies, and support logistical coordination.
This kind of civil protection assistance has been coordinated in other countries as well, often in cooperation with local authorities and humanitarian NGOs. The program emphasizes skills training, organizational discipline, and a strong ethic of service—all qualities valued by emergency response stakeholders.
Environmental Responsibility at the Grassroots Level
Environmental protection is a moral and practical responsibility shared by religious communities and civil society alike. Inspired by the 12th precept of The Way to Happiness—”Safeguard and Improve Your Environment”—Scientologists throughout Europe regularly organize clean-up campaigns in parks, urban spaces, and riverbanks.
In Paris, volunteers from the Church of Scientology have participated in public clean-up actions along the Seine, while in Germany, local groups have carried out recycling projects and tree planting activities. These efforts are typically grassroots in nature and take place in collaboration with neighborhood associations and civic groups.
Read full article here Report this page