The UNHCR representative stated that he was not surprised that a riot took place at the detention centre for illegal migrants because these people were frustrated. I believe that these people are frustrated since they have not achieved their aim which is that of reaching mainland Europe and starting a new life there.

So, how do we end their frustartion?

There are legal, internationally established means. The best is to declare individuals, who qualify for the designation, “refugees”. I understand that Malta’s record in this respect is better than most other European countries.

Another is to give humanitarian protection to individuals who qualify for it after due examination. Again, Malta’s record in this respect is quite good.

In other cases Malta reaches agreement with other countries to receive them legally.

But there will always be others who fall outside these categories. In some cases deportation to their home countries ends frustration in Malta but, I presume, it does not eliminate frustration altogether.

As for the rest, should Malta help them to end their frustation by helping them to reach mainland Europe? If so, how?

By closing an eye to human trafficking which has caused the death of so many people?

Or should we just let them stay on the island as if they had entered Malta legally with the necessary permits for residence and work?

If this is the solution, why bother to establish costly and lengthy procedures to arrange resettlement in another country, or deportation, or to find out who is a genuine refugee, or who merits humanitarian protection?

This is the reality that no government can ignore.

There are many Maltese citizens who feel frustrated for one reason or another, or whose application for some form of help is not accepted. God forbid that their frustration leads to violence.