Catholic business leaders and technology experts in Thailand have raised concerns that artificial intelligence could eliminate entry-level jobs, limiting opportunities for young professionals to gain workplace experience and develop their careers.
The issue was among the main topics discussed during the annual gala dinner of the Catholic Business Executives and Professionals (CBEP) in Bangkok on Oct. 2, 2026.
The gathering brought together business executives, clergy, and technology specialists to examine how Catholic social teaching can guide businesses amid rapid technological change.
Established as an official lay ministry in 1993 with the approval of Cardinal Michael Michai Kitbunchu, retired archbishop of Bangkok, CBEP connects Catholic entrepreneurs, business executives and professionals.
The organization is a member of UNIAPAC, the International Christian Union of Business Executives, which promotes Christian ethical principles in business.
Among those attending were Archbishop Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana of Bangkok, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Thailand; Cardinal Francis Xavier Kriengsak Kovithavanis, retired archbishop of Bangkok; and other bishops, clergy and business executives.
George Varakorn Techamontrikul, president of CBEP Thailand, emphasized the importance of strengthening networks among Catholic professionals and translating faith into business practices, social initiatives and support for the Church.
“Although the executive team is small in size, it is capable of delivering results and executing projects efficiently—often exceeding expectations,” said George Varakorn.
He also reported on the expansion of Thai Catholic Hub, a digital platform covering spirituality, business and contemporary lifestyle topics.
“As of now, we have produced up to Episode 5, including a flagship series focusing directly on Synodality. The five-part series has already garnered over 30,000 views in total, with the inaugural installment alone drawing nearly 15,000 views,” he said.
AI and the future of employment
A panel discussion titled “As AI Becomes Smarter, How Must Humans Become Smarter in How They Live?” examined how artificial intelligence is changing business operations, employment and the value of human labor.
The panel, which included a Redemptorist priest and AI specialists, focused particularly on the potential loss of entry-level positions traditionally available to young graduates.
Jobs in administration, procurement, data entry and project coordination have long provided opportunities for new employees to gain practical experience, develop professional networks and learn from experienced colleagues.
Panelists warned that as automated systems increasingly perform these tasks, young workers could lose important opportunities for training and career development.
They urged employers to establish mentorship and workplace integration programs for university students in their second, third and fourth years, allowing them to gain practical experience before formally entering the workforce.
Fr. Joseph Prud Thipthong, C.Ss.R., connected these challenges to Catholic social teaching, referring to papal encyclicals that call on leaders to approach economic and social changes with a broad, forward-looking perspective.
Fr. Pongsak Sangiamkaew of the Diocese of Nakhon Sawan told LiCAS News during the gathering that business leaders should move beyond outdated practices and regard economic stewardship as a “noble vocation” that balances productivity with respect for human dignity.
“The vocation of a businessperson is to use one’s faith as a driving force for society. In a business world fraught with challenges, the role of a Catholic businessperson extends beyond the mere generation of economic profit; it entails serving as a ‘witness to the faith’ through management rooted in ethics, virtue, and compassion,” said Fr. Pongsak.
The discussion also emphasized the responsibility of Catholic business leaders to ensure that technological advances serve people rather than diminish opportunities for employment and professional growth.
Bishop Peter Suphot Roeksujarit of Chiang Mai closed the gathering with a reflection on solidarity, ethical leadership and the importance of maintaining human relationships amid technological change.
“The joy of the journey lies in having one another. The beauty of success is found in growing together. The greatness of the heart is shown by reaching our dreams together, never letting go of each other’s hands, even on the most difficult days,” said Bishop Suphot.
“In today’s business world, we have AI—Artificial Intelligence—to enhance our capabilities. Within our hearts, let us cultivate another kind of ‘AI’: Authenticity and Integrity,” he said.
“Let technology help us think more effectively and let our convictions guide us to make the right choices—so that every success we achieve may also become a blessing to others.”
