This study focusses on analysing the field of religious education in the Netherlands and Indonesia on a macro-, meso-, and micro-level. We have applied a qualitative, descriptive research design that contains of a review study of legal documents, policy statements and exploratory interviews with scholars, administrators and teachers in the educational field. By mapping the status quo of religious education in public and religiously-affiliated secondary schools, this study aims to provide insights in possibilities and different ways to further stimulate the development of education that contributes to the elimination of negative stereotypes and the dissemination of religious literacy. The value of this exploratory research lies in the fact that it sheds light on similarities and differences between the two countries and contributes to a higher degree of understanding of the social reality in the different national contexts. We conclude that while the link between religious education and religious tolerance in educational practises in both countries is seldom utilized,opportunities and possibilities to effectuate religious tolerance trough religious education are not fully seized.