KingNewsWire // The year 2024 marked a memorable moment on the International Day against Drug Abuse, as a remarkable achievement was celebrated on June 25. On the eve of the United Nations Day against Drug Abuse, the Foundation for a Drug-Free World was officially recognized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs and granted NGO Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), opening a new chapter in the fight against drug abuse.
“The importance of this milestone cannot be overemphasized,” said Ivan Arjona, President of Foundation MEJORA and Scientology Representative to the EU and the UN. “With many years of experience and expertise in the field of drug prevention, the Foundation for a Drug Free World is now ready to share its wealth of knowledge on drug education and prevention,” he added. This new status allows the Foundation to actively participate in events and conferences at UN offices in Geneva, Vienna and New York, and authorizes the Foundation to hold conferences in UN buildings focused on sharing the expertise gained through decades of drug education and prevention work in various countries.
Olivia McDuff, Church of Scientology International Public Affairs, congratulated the Foundation for a Drug-Free World International, recognizing the role played by volunteers, partners, and supporters around the world. McDuff emphasized the accomplishments while acknowledging the ongoing challenges in addressing the global drug epidemic. She encouraged those who want to make a difference in this cause to check out the resources on the Foundation for a Drug-Free World website or ask for help from their local Church of Scientology, where they can find these resources for free.
Members of the Scientology community have been actively involved in educating and preventing drug abuse in their neighborhoods for at least 30 years. Their passion for this mission stems from the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard, a humanitarian and founder of Scientology who understood the negative effects of drugs on society. “Research has shown that drugs are the most destructive element in our culture today,” Hubbard said, which is very much in line with the Foundation’s goal of a drug-free world.
Achieving Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC) represents a significant step forward in the fight against drug abuse worldwide. “With their knowledge and experience, the Foundation for a Drug-Free World is well positioned to influence global initiatives for drug prevention and education,” said Ivan Arjona-Pelado.
This recognition not only confirms the foundation’s commitment to creating a drug-free world, but also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in solving the complex problem of drug abuse worldwide. “Any effort to end the drug epidemic, regardless of what religion supports it, is necessary and welcomed by those who want to see a drug-free world where children have the right to live in a drug-free environment,” Arjona-Pelado concluded.
