Scientologists Across Europe Maintain Their Efforts to Helping Society and Promoting Spiritual Freedom.

Brussels, Belgium — November 2025 — From the streets of Prague to community halls in Madrid, dedicated individuals of the Church of Scientology are carrying forward a enduring tradition: supporting their communities through compassionate initiatives that aim to restore moral clarity, human dignity, and empathy. Behind these efforts lies a core principle central to Scientology itself — that true spiritual freedom cannot be achieved except through meaningful contributions to the welfare of others in the community.

In the last few months, Scientologists and their affiliated groups have led a wide range of civic and educational activities throughout Europe. In the Czech Republic alone, Volunteer Ministers hosted nearly 50 community initiatives in October 2025, such as neighborhood clean-ups, disaster-response training, L Ron Hubbard and educational sessions for young people focused on integrity and teamwork. Similar efforts were mirrored in Italy, Hungary, Spain, and France, all conducted under the Church’s wide-reaching social mission.

Humanitarian Work as a Spiritual Practice.

Whereas some groups distinguish between belief and action, Scientology positions assisting those in need at the heart of personal progress. Its founder, L. Ron Hubbard, wrote that “a being is only as valuable as he can serve others,” a insight that underpins the Church’s humanitarian efforts. From the worldwide Volunteer Ministers program to educational campaigns on drug prevention, literacy, and human rights, each action demonstrates the idea that assisting others is an integral component toward one’s own personal liberation.

Across Europe, this philosophy has been put into action through initiatives such as “The Way to Happiness” — a non-religious ethical guide written by Hubbard in 1981 that has reached millions in more than 100 languages — and “Youth for Human Rights”, which empowers students to recognize and copyright the UDHR. These programs, while not requiring religious affiliation, illustrate the Scientology view that strengthening the ethical foundation of communities is vital to individuals to achieve spiritual well-being.

A European Culture of Civic Responsibility.

In cities like Brussels, Rome, and Vienna, Scientology Missions and Churches have become active participants in civic life, often working hand-in-hand with local associations to address social challenges such as social exclusion, substance dependency, and prejudice. Their work aligns with the European Union’s emphasis on civic participation and ethical education.

“Helping others is not merely a charitable act — it is a cornerstone of a free and cohesive society,” said Ivan Arjona-Pelado, European representative of the Church of Scientology, Representative of the Church of Scientology to the European Union, OSCE, Council of Europe and the United Nations. “When individuals step up to support their communities, they also move closer to understanding their own true identity. This is the essence of what Scientologists mean by freedom — not only self-determination, but a commitment to the well-being of all.”

Volunteer Ministers: A Movement of Practical Help.

One of the most visible expressions of this ethos is the Volunteer Ministers (VMs) program, established in the 1970s in response to what Hubbard described as the “moral decay” of modern life. Easily recognized by their yellow shirts, VMs operate in more than 200 countries, providing aid in times of crisis — from emergencies like wildfires or hurricanes to daily personal struggles.

In Europe, Volunteer Ministers have been active in Slovenia’s flood recovery efforts, humanitarian aid for displaced persons in Hungary, rebuilding efforts after seismic events in Southern Europe, and ongoing neighborhood initiatives across the continent. Their courses — open to anyone regardless of belief — focuses on practical tools to address disagreements, foster clearer dialogue, and rebuild personal resilience.

These actions are motivated not by conversion but by compassion but by the belief that people, when supported with care and insight, can overcome despair and rebuild their futures. This is why the program’s motto, “Something can be done about it,” has resonated across languages and cultures.

Education and Prevention as Keys to Social Change.

In addition to direct assistance, Scientologists have prioritized education as a long-term strategy for change. The “Truth About Drugs” campaign — spearheaded by the Foundation for a Drug-Free World — has distributed millions of booklets and hosted community forums in collaboration with teachers, police departments, and youth organizations. Similarly, Youth for Human Rights chapters throughout Europe have delivered classroom programs, helping young people see dignity as a right for everyone.

Each of these programs is made possible through the dedication of Scientologists but delivered alongside secular institutions, proving that spiritual values can drive meaningful social action. This cooperative spirit has earned acknowledgment from local authorities, educators, and NGOs for its sustained dedication.

The Path to Spiritual Freedom.

For Scientologists, service to others is not distinct from their religious practice — it is the very way that spiritual awareness grows. The religion teaches that individuals are immortal spiritual beings, capable of achieving higher states of consciousness through both individual spiritual work and service to others. Supporting those around you thus becomes an inseparable aspect of advancing toward what Scientology calls “full spiritual independence.”

“Europe has a longstanding commitment to human dignity that cherishes cooperation and shared responsibility,” added Arjona. “Scientologists build upon this heritage by applying spiritual principles to everyday life — {bringing help, hope, and understanding wherever they can|offering practical aid and moral clarity in their communities|sharing tools for a better life