Vienna/Los Angeles/Vatican City – Arnold Schwarzenegger will personally meet Pope Leo XIV in early October. The occasion marks a historic first: Pope Leo XIV is dedicating the entire first week of October to environmental and climate protection, sending a strong message about the urgent need for action.
For many years, Schwarzenegger has been a leading global figure in uniting and inspiring people to fight for a healthy planet. Through his Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative, he has actively championed environmental and climate issues, organizing the AUSTRIAN WORLD SUMMIT each year. On June 16, 2026, the summit will take place for the tenth time at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna, showcasing concrete solutions for a sustainable future.
The Catholic Church and the Vatican have also long emphasized care for creation and sustainability as core values and priorities.
Monika Langthaler, Director of the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative, commented: “For Arnold, it’s clear: when we stand together and take action, we can make history. That’s exactly what we mean by UNITE IN ACTION. We are thrilled to join forces with the Pope this year to send such a powerful message.”
As part of this special week, the Vatican, in collaboration with the Laudato Si’ Movement, will host a three-day summit from October 1–3, 2025, under the theme “Raising Awareness.” Alongside Schwarzenegger, notable guests include Marina Silva, Brazil’s Minister of the Environment and COP host, and Iyad Abumoghli, Director of the Faith for Earth Coalition at UNEP.
The upcoming event is jointly initiated by the USC Schwarzenegger Institute and the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative, bringing together their shared commitment to inspire global action for a healthy planet.
More about the program: https://raisinghope.earth/conference/
Credit: Laudato Si Movement