What Happened to Church of Scientology International?

Scientology emerged in the early 1950s from the ideas of American science fiction author L. Ron Hubbard, initially as a self-help system called Dianetics, which he introduced in his 1950 book, "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health." Hubbard later reframed his concepts into a religious framework, founding the Church of Scientology in 1954. Core beliefs revolve around the concept of the 'thetan,' an immortal spiritual being, and the practice of 'auditing' using an E-meter to address traumatic experiences ('engrams') and achieve higher states of spiritual awareness, outlined in 'The Bridge to Total Freedom.'

The organization's growth was marked by both expansion and controversy. A significant turning point occurred in 1993 when, after decades of legal disputes and what the Church described as a "war" with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Scientology was granted tax-exempt religious status in the United States. This recognition, however, did not quell public and governmental scrutiny, particularly in other countries where its religious status remains debated or denied.

Following Hubbard's death in 1986, David Miscavige assumed leadership as the Chairman of the Board of the Religious Technology Center, the highest ecclesiastical position. Under Miscavige, Scientology has continued its strategy of acquiring and renovating properties, often referred to as "Ideal Orgs," to serve as new or expanded church facilities worldwide, such as the Ideal Church of Scientology Chicago dedicated in March 2024. However, this expansion in real estate has often been contrasted with independent estimates of declining active membership.

The Church has faced persistent allegations of abuse, forced labor, financial exploitation, and harassment of former members and critics. High-profile defections, including actress Leah Remini, have led to increased public awareness and critical documentaries, further impacting public perception. Legal challenges continue to be a significant aspect of Scientology's current landscape. As of August 2026, several lawsuits are ongoing, including Leah Remini's harassment and defamation suit against the Church and David Miscavige, which a California appeals court recently ruled could proceed, albeit with some claims trimmed. The civil lawsuit against celebrity Scientologist Danny Masterson, convicted of rape in May 2023, also continues, with allegations of the Church interfering in the criminal case.

As of August 15, 2026, Scientology is actively engaged in public initiatives and construction projects, such as the groundbreaking for the L. Ron Hubbard Hall in Clearwater, Florida, on August 1, 2026, intended as a global broadcast center. Concurrently, the organization is navigating new controversies, including a viral 'Scientology speedrun' trend on TikTok where individuals rush through church properties, and an August 2026 investigation alleging the employment of children as young as 13 in its UK offices. While the Church claims over 11 million members globally, independent analyses in 2022-2026 estimate the active worldwide membership to be significantly lower, possibly between 15,000 and 50,000, indicating a continued state of decline in many developed countries.