E.U. Climate Chief Has Work Cut Out for Her

Connie Hedegaard embodies the way the European Commission would like to be perceived in the 21st century.

Ms. Hedegaard, 50, leads the commission’s efforts on climate change, an issue with global resonance, and she is a confident and telegenic communicator, helping dislodge the commission’s image as a haven for graying politicians who settle fights over fish quotas.